Christmas light bus tours spread joy across the Isle of Wight
Image by Leon Girling
The creator behind a dazzling holiday display says his goal is simple: to brighten visitors’ spirits on festive bus tours.
Each year, an open-top double-decker carries riders through the Isle of Wight’s top light showcases as part of the annual Light up the Wight competition.
Leon Girling, who finished third in 2024, has dedicated years to building his Sandown-centered masterpiece, drawing inspiration from Harry Potter, Star Wars, and LEGO.
He shared a moment of satisfaction after the final checks, noting, “It’s a real commitment to complete the build, and on the last day I almost lie down on the drive and gaze at it all lit up, thinking, ‘It’s finished!’.”
The Sandown display on Victoria Road—featured on BBC1’s The One Show on Friday—has grown over three years.
This year’s scene is grander than before, including a new flying Ford Anglia inspired by the iconic car from the Harry Potter films, crafted from plywood and repurposed wheelbarrow wheels.
Additional effects include a smoke and snow machine, projections, and a dragon that breathes fire.
Girling noted that the annual display began as a way to stay mentally steady during the Covid lockdown and has since become a family project, with support from his parents, children, and wife. Much of the materials come from upcycling efforts.
Light up the Wight is supported by Island Echo and Southern Vectis, and the displays raise funds for charity.
The bus tours, which are already sold out, depart from Newport and visit Ryde, St Helens, Whitwell, and Cowes.
Public voting will determine the winners in January.
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