HEROIC dad Alex Lewis is to turn on Stockbridge's Christmas lights at late-night shopping on December 9.

Residents, traders and councillors have raised over £5,000 towards this year's display.

The whole High Street is set to be lit up, with over 30 decorated Christmas trees adorning buildings.

Many shops will be offering complimentary mulled or sparkling wine and canapés to shoppers.

A Formula 1 car will be parked outside restaurant Thyme & Tides and live music will be provided by Test Valley Brass Band.

Quadruple amputee Alex, who lives in the town, will switch on the Christmas tree lights, after which there will be a short candle-lit carol service at St Peter's Church.

“All in the community have worked hard to make this a very special Christmas and we have had some generous donations from individual residents and stakeholder groups,” said Alex.

“It is an honour for me to turn on the Christmas tree lights in my local town.”

Alex came down with a common cold last November, which was diagnosed as a horrific virus, resulting in the amputation of both his arms and legs.

Currently learning to walk again, he has won the hearts of many across Hampshire for his courage and positive attitude towards his plight.