A CRAFTSMAN from Taunton who creates an annual Christmas display in his garden has completed his latest project after weeks of work.

Philip Sutherland spent over six weeks crafting his biggest display yet, a magnificent illuminated model of the Polar Express.

The display spans five metres long and almost three metres tall.

Despite the cold weather, Philip battled on with a hot water bottle under his jumper to get the project finished in time for Christmas.

He hopes the stunning display will spread some Christmas cheer, and also raise money for St Margaret's Hospice - a charity close to Philip and his family's hearts.

"Please help me reach out and raise as money as we can for this wonderful charity that provides end of life care for cancer patients and provides support for families in those dark times," Phil said.

An envelope box is stationed at the front of his house on Thames Drive for those wanting to make cash donations, and online donations can be made via the JustGiving page.

Locals are welcome to drop by and take in the wonderful creation any day between 5:30pm and 10pm.

"Please feel free to see my display and help us raise some money throughout this Christmas break," Philip added.

"I would like to thank everyone who has already donated and also helped spreading the word.

"Tell all your family and friends to come see we are on Thames drive Taunton. 

"Merry Christmas to all, and a happy new year."

Following his wedding in 2022, Philip took inspiration from his favourite actor Jim Carrey to make a display featuring the dog Max pulling the Grinch up a cliff edge.

He used several pallets he collected from work to build a foundation and glued 2,000 LED lights underneath to light up the cliff.

Back in 2020, Philip spent three months cutting numerous pieces of wire by hand to make a five-foot tall reindeer out of coat hangers.

He told the County Gazette: "I have always been an artistic person and wanted to spread the joy and put a smile on people’s faces."