Christmas has come early to Darlington as festive lights begin appearing across the town centre, but not everyone is ready to embrace the celebrations just yet.
Darlington Borough Council workers were spotted putting up Christmas lights along High Row today (Thursday, October 22, more than three weeks before the town's annual switch-on.
The early appearance of the decorations has prompted mixed reactions, with one resident saying October is “far too early” to be thinking about Christmas.
The resident, who did not want to be named, said: “I think October is a bit too early to be thinking about Christmas.
The timing of the lights going up split opinion among Darlington residents
“I understand they need to get them up before the Christmas light switch-on but couldn’t they wait until November?”
However, another resident was delighted to see some festive cheer beginning to appear in the town centre.
She said: “I really don’t mind the lights personally, I think it adds a bit of happiness and sparkle to the town. Plus the kids love it.”
The decorations are being installed ahead of Darlington's annual Christmas lights switch-on, which is due to take place in Market Square on Sunday, November 15.
The free event will begin at 4pm, with live music and entertainment leading up to the main countdown.
A date has been set for Darlington's Christmas lights switch on this year.
Darlington's Christmas lights will be switched on shortly before 5.30pm, followed by a celebratory fireworks display.
Residents are being encouraged to head into the town centre in plenty of time to secure their spot, with a full programme of entertainment and details of this year's special guests expected closer to the event.
Read more
Popular North Yorkshire attraction forced to close this weekend amid strong winds
Storm Boelo to batter North East with 80mph winds as yellow warning issued
'Cat crisis' at County Durham RSPCA centre as charity takes in 129 pets this year
Visitors who are sensitive to loud noises have been advised that ear defenders may be useful, particularly during the fireworks display.
Do you think October is too early for Christmas lights, or are you happy to see some festive cheer arriving in Darlington?
Let us know in the comments.