Story
We are the Clarks, from 81 Colonels Lane, and it’s that time of year again when our home comes alive with Christmas lights, spreading joy, warmth, and a little Christmas magic.
Each year, we raise money and awareness for charities close to our hearts, and our display is dedicated to our Son and Brother, Jack. Jack was born in 2002, four weeks early and critically ill. Jack spent all his time on this world in an incubator in the Neonatal Unit at St George's Hospital, and sadly passed away just 6 days later. Though his time with us was heartbreakingly short, the love and joy he brought into our lives is impossible to put into words. Losing him left a hole in our hearts that will never fully heal, yet his memory fills our home and every corner of our lives. Each light we put up is a reminder of him, the love we felt, the grief we carry, and the hope that his memory can shine bright for others.
Our lights honour all the precious babies who now shine among the angels in the sky, remembering their lives and the families who love them. We hope the display brings people together, celebrating community, hope, and the spirit of Christmas.
Every year, we switch on the lights on 24th November, Jack’s birthday, marking what would have been his 23rd birthday this year. The switch-on is a deeply special moment for our family, a way to remember Jack, reflect on the love and loss, and share that love with everyone who visits.
This year, we are proud to support Tiny Toes, an incredible campaign run by East Kent Hospitals Charity. Tiny Toes helps premature and critically ill babies, providing vital life-saving equipment at William Harvey Hospital in Ashford and the Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Hospital in Margate. The charity also supports families going through unimaginably difficult times, offering comfort, guidance, and hope when they need it most.
Our lights are not just decoration, they are a story, a memory, and a symbol of love and loss that stretches from our home to every tiny fighter and their family. As you walk past and see them twinkle in the night, we hope you feel the magic and take a moment to remember the babies no longer with us. And with your help, that magic can reach the babies and families who need it most.
The display is lit daily from 8am to 11:30pm, spreading Christmas cheer right through to January 5th, hopefully bringing smiles, joy, and a little sparkle to everyone who visits. We hope it inspires you to sing, dance, take photos, and share the spirit of the season with your loved ones.
Every penny donated goes directly to Tiny Toes, helping tiny fighters get the best start in life and supporting local families through their most challenging moments.
From our hearts to yours, thank you for helping us keep Jack’s memory alive, honour all the angels in the sky, and bring hope to those who need it most.
Thank you for always helping us make this season so special - for Jack and for so many others. Don't forget to check out our Facebook page for updates and to share your photos with us, link below!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/81colonelslanelights
We hope you enjoy the 2025 display! Have a very Merry and Magical Christmas!
With love and gratitude,
The Clark Family - 81 Colonels Lane
