But thoughtless thieves have ruined Christmas for one Wodonga neighbourhood where resident Al Skinner had previously dressed as Santa, decorated his house and handed out lollies and gifts to delighted kids.

Unfortunately Al’s Christmas spirit has been tainted by those who have this year stolen his lights. On top of other incidents in previous years when he has had other decorations stolen, it has been enough for him to decide to abandon his Christmas festivities.

The thieves’ thoughtlessness has had a flow-on effect to disappointing those youngsters who had wanted to volunteer as elves to Mr Skinner’s Santa, recognising their neighbour’s generosity was in need of a little support.

Unfortunately, stealing Christmas lights or ornaments is nothing new in Border neighbourhoods where residents have attempted to spread a little cheer.

The sad thing is, a situation such as this in West Wodonga, where the thieves appear to have won, to the detriment of a community where generosity has been shared but ultimately thwarted by those who will not care what they have done.