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Big Issue seller switches on Winchester Christmas lights Big Issue seller switches on Winchester Christmas lights
(about 2 hours later)
A popular Big Issue seller has turned on a city's Christmas lights after an online campaign by residents.A popular Big Issue seller has turned on a city's Christmas lights after an online campaign by residents.
Kev Collick was given the honour after people in Winchester praised his jokes and banter.Kev Collick was given the honour after people in Winchester praised his jokes and banter.
Mr Collick said the city was different from other affluent towns because he was not snubbed by passers-by.Mr Collick said the city was different from other affluent towns because he was not snubbed by passers-by.
The city's Business Improvement District (BID) said the event had raised thousands of pounds for homelessness charities.The city's Business Improvement District (BID) said the event had raised thousands of pounds for homelessness charities.
More on this and other stories from across the South of England
Mr Collick, who is no longer homeless, said he found himself living on the streets after he was put into care as a child when his father died.Mr Collick, who is no longer homeless, said he found himself living on the streets after he was put into care as a child when his father died.
He said he enjoyed selling the magazine and "having a giggle" with customers.He said he enjoyed selling the magazine and "having a giggle" with customers.
Winchester's BID said it asked Mr Collick to switch on the lights after seeing "hundreds" of messages online.Winchester's BID said it asked Mr Collick to switch on the lights after seeing "hundreds" of messages online.
Spokeswoman Amy Sheppard said: "Kevin is one of Winchester's gems. People look forward to their daily interactions with Kev and he's been extremely supportive towards local charities."Spokeswoman Amy Sheppard said: "Kevin is one of Winchester's gems. People look forward to their daily interactions with Kev and he's been extremely supportive towards local charities."
Commenting on the event, Facebook users described Mr Collick as a "Winchester treasure" and a "legend".Commenting on the event, Facebook users described Mr Collick as a "Winchester treasure" and a "legend".
Jill Renowden said he was "an antidote to any grey day with his funny quips" while Wendy Brain called him "one of the highlights of a visit to Winchester".Jill Renowden said he was "an antidote to any grey day with his funny quips" while Wendy Brain called him "one of the highlights of a visit to Winchester".