VILLAGERS are being urged to enter the Christmas spirit by decorating their homes for the festive period.

West Auckland Parish Council has launched a Christmas decoration competition to brighten up the village.

Families and businesses are being asked to light up their properties to make the neighbourhood attractive for residents and visitors.

A cash prize of £50 is on offer to the owners of the best decorated house around the village green or on roads approaching the village.

And the best decorated business will be awarded a troph.

Decorated premises will be judged in mid-December.