WHEN it comes to Christmas cheer nothing is quite like taking a drive around town with the kids and looking at all the wonderful Christmas lights on display.

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This year is no different with lights galore on show for all of Port Stephens to enjoy.

By day Santa and reindeer cutouts, tinsel and banners.

By night flashing stars, endless led lights and laser shows.

When you drive around, don’t forget to take a peek down the smaller streets and cul-de-sacs.

Unfortunately, this year has been tarnished by opportunistic thieves determined to dampen the Christmas spirits.

Petty Theft might not seem much or even come up on some people’s radar.

But when it literally steals the joy of Christmas from children it needs to be addressed.

Medowie residents have had lights and decorations stolen and broken during the night.

Some have actually startled the vandals in the act, scaring them off.

A local resident and victim of this crime, Ms Catheryne Kelly told News Of The Area, “Although they are only a few little lights put out once a year, it is something that our family really enjoys together as do so many other families.”

“It’s one of our traditions of welcoming in a wonderful time of year.”

“For our children and ourselves it is heartbreaking when others believe they can just come past and take them. Our kids were so disappointed,” she told News Of The Area.

Another Port Stephens resident also affected, Ms Katrina Becker said, “We are disappointed this is happening in Medowie, we haven’t had any issues for the eight years we’ve lived here.”

“This time of year is about the kids and giving joy.”

“We are very annoyed, and our children are most disappointed as they helped their father put them up and were proud of their efforts,” she said.

Any unsolicited activity should be immediately reported to local police.

By Kelly MAY