A DISNEY themed Christmas light switch on is being held in memory of a young Priestwood man.

On October 19 last year Alex Elkington died while on holiday with his family in Poole.

The 22 year-old suffered from cerebral palsy following complications at birth and died after developing a chest infection his weakened immune system was unable to fight.

At 5.30pm November 1 the Elkingtons will switch on the now famous Christmas lights on their house, 35 Moordale Avenue, with a special appearance from Mickey Mouse and a firework display.

Joshua Elkington, Alex's brother, said: "When we held his funeral it was open and there were a lot of people. It was nice seeing how many were there for Alex, and so we wanted to do something similar.

"He had a very deep interest in Disney, especially Mickey Mouse. One of the places we saw him smile the most was at Disney Land.

"Our Christmas lights are well known as the brightest in Moordale."

The 21 year-old runs a costume company and will be wearing the mouse outfit on November 1.

Speaking the day before the anniversary of his brother's death, Mr Elkington said adapting to life without Alex had been particularly difficult for his parents Ana and Clive.

"I have been okay because I have tried to be the strong one for the rest of the family," he continued.

"There are some days I will come downstairs and find mum looking at his bedroom, just staring at the walls.

"It is hard having a routine for 22 years then not having anything. They are used to waking up every morning, getting him out of bed, feeding him and changing him.

"They had a routine looking after Alex. They just have themselves to look after now."

The Elkingtons are collecting to cover the outstanding cost of Alex's headstone. Any donations on the night will be gratefully received.