Council killjoys order homeowner to pull the plug on his 20,000 Christmas lights

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Vic Moszczynski would decorate his home with an eyepopping 22,000 fairylights as well as giant inflatables including Santa and Winnie-the-Pooh.

This year, however, while the inflatables remain, there are just 300 lights in what the former fireman calls a "pathetic" display.

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Light storm: The Christmas decorations at Vic Moszcynski's home in 2004

Dim the lights: This year's 'pathetic' festive display

He said he was powerless to do anything else for fear of contravening an injunction served on him by his local council after a series of complaints from neighbours who felt the annual light show was not quite the right thing for upmarket Sonning in Berkshire.

Some have been openly hostile about the hordes who arrive to see the display, which over 18 years has raised £55,000 for charity.

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'Christmas Vic': Neighbours petitioned the council to restrict Vic Moszczynski's Christmas lights so this year is only allowed 300

Locals have complained of noise, disruption and petty crime by visitors.

Last month Mr Moszczynski, 51, even appeared in court accused of criminal damage to neighbours' houses to get his own back, but he was cleared after a district judge ruled there was insufficent evidence.

But despite his victory there, he has had to tone down his display after Wokingham District Council banned him from making his charity collections.

While his house is still decked out with more decorations than most, Mr Moszczynski is not happy. "I only wish other people could get into the Christmas spirit," he said.