HOW do you know it's really Christmas? When the Byron Road lights are switched on, that's when!

Rapidly becoming the UK's favourite Christmas street, the New Milton road has persuaded Meridian TV weather presenter Holly Green and Undateables star, Shaine Singer, to do the honours tomorrow (Sunday) at 6pm, in what organiser Jason Dean says will be their best-ever display.

"We've got entertainment from 4pm and the big switch-on at 6pm, as well as a visit from Santa," he said.

The lights stay on until January 2 with spontaneous appearances from Santa Claus and his elves. Their spectators have even included the occasional 'A-list' celebrity. "I'm not saying who but a few have been spotted," he said.

The fun started 13 years ago and in that time Byron Road has been filmed by crews from Australian, US, French and Russian TV, as well as appearing as part of the Cadbury's Christmas advert last year.

During this time, says Jason, the road has raised more than £55,000 for charity. "Apart from all the fun and the look on everyone's faces, the charities are the reason we do it," he said.

This year they were given £500 towards their public liability insurance by New Milton Town Council which means that even more money will go towards their chosen charities, the Fortune Centre of Riding Therapy at Bransgore, and First Responders.