A QUIET cul-de-sac has been transformed into a stunning Christmas wonderland in memory of a York woman's brave battle against cancer.

People living in Twin Pike Way, Wigginton, have organised a spectacular lights switch-on in their street for the last three years.

Thousands of pounds have been raised for St Leonard's Hospice, including last year's incredible £2,500.

This year, the big switch-on was dedicated to the memory of former Twin Pike Way resident Catherine Crinson, who died from cancer in June, aged 34.

Friend and neighbour Chris Archer, who has lived in Twin Pike Way for 27 years, said: "It was tinged with sadness, but a good way for us to remember Cath, everyone remembers her dancing snowmen when the lights were switched on.

"Cath was very well known locally, she was very community- minded and is sadly missed."

The lights were switched on yesterday by ward councillor and Lord Mayor of York, Charles Hall. After the switch-on residents temporarily renamed their street Twinkle Pike Way.

Sarah Pulleyn, who helped organise the lights, said: "It looks beautiful. On a cold winter night when you come home from work seeing the lights makes you smile. They really put you in the Christmas mood."

Mother-of-two Sarah said residents started work on the lights at the beginning of November.

"A lot of hard work has been put in on this by a lot of people. They deserve all the credit."

Collections for St Leonard's Hospice will take place while the lights are shining. Residents hope to beat last year's total.

Updated: 10:02 Monday, December 01, 2003