Christmas lights 'are switch off'

One in four house-hunters are put off buying a home because of the neighbour's garish Christmas decorations, according to a survey.



Of the 1,000 people asked, about one in three said they would not want to live next door to someone who covers their property with decorations.

Steve Reid, retail banking director for Clydesdale Bank, said: "Plenty of people enjoy getting into the festive spirit with a few decorations here and there - but they should be wary about going overboard.

"A giant glowing Santa sitting on your chimney could see your neighbour's chance of a house sale go up in smoke."