A MARNEL Lodge resident has performed the annual Christmas lights switch on.

John Gurney, 64, threw the switch outside the Popley care home to a crowd of fellow residents and Marnel Lodge carers.

John has been dubbed the ‘Marnel Miracle’ after surviving a double lung transplant a few months ago despite being told two years ago that he would not survive the weekend.

Mr Gurney, whose incredible story featured in the Gazette last month, said: “It was really good to turn the lights on. It’s nice to give back to everyone here.”

The display, including the tree and light-up reindeer as well as lights snaking throughout the inside of the care home was made up of more than 2,000 lights.

He added: “The staff are so nice and they treat me and everyone here well. We’re a close group, and it means a lot to do this.”