Famous 'Grinch House' ready for charity fundraising
For the past six years, the wonderful Hill family have transformed the front of their home into a magical Christmas wonderland- well known for its 'Grinch' theme!
What began as a bit of festive fun has grown into a beloved local tradition- an ever-expanding, truly spectacular display that delights neighbours, friends, and families who travel from near and far to enjoy the lights, music, and Christmas cheer. The display even caught the attention of City Fibre, who featured it as the backdrop for an internal advert!
“The Grinch theme started about six years ago,” said Diana. “We thought it would be funny to make a life-sized Grinch to sit on our bay window- he was so popular, everyone loved him! Since then, each year we’ve added more decorations.”
The display also carries deep sentimental meaning. It is created in honour of Diana’s sister, who sadly passed away from Cystic Fibrosis at just 22 years old.
“The Grinch was my sister’s favourite film, and Christmas was her favourite time of year,” Diana shared. “That’s why the Grinch will always be part of our display.”
Around three years ago, a neighbour suggested the display could help raise funds for charity. The Hill family has supported several causes- including the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and Portsmouth Foodbank- through street parties and donations. Last Christmas was the first time they used the display specifically to fundraise, raising just under £700 for their 2024 charity.
This year, they once again asked the local community to nominate a charity- and have this time chosen to support local disability charity, Enable Ability.
Enable Ability, has been supporting children, young people, and adults with disabilities for 75 years, providing high-quality, person-centred services across Portsmouth and South-East Hampshire.
The charity works with individuals with mild to moderate needs, through to those requiring more complex support, ensuring they have opportunities to learn, socialise, build skills, and live fulfilling, independent lives. Their work makes a meaningful difference to disabled people and their families- and community support like this helps them continue that mission.
Partnerships and Events Officer, Hollie, at Enable Ability said: “We want to express our heartfelt thanks to the Hill family for choosing us as their charity of choice this year, and for the kindness, creativity, and the magic they bring to the community. Their fabulous display brings joy to so many, and now it will help bring opportunities, support, and smiles to the people we work with every day.
"In addition, a huge thank you in advance to everyone who donates. Your generosity will directly support our life-changing services, and will help ensure that people with disabilities across the area can thrive!
"You certainly won't be disappointed by your visit!”
You can enjoy the display in all its festive glory* daily, from now until 2nd January (between 8am and 10pm) at: 42 Carisbrooke Road, Southsea, PO4 8RF
You can visit the Hill family’s Christmas Light display fundraising page here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/hillchristmas-display2025 or you can simply pop donations into the black post-box mounted on the wall at the address.
For more details about the services Enable Ability provides, please visit www.enableability.org.uk
*Please note, that in the case of severe winds, parts of/ the whole of the display may not be in action.