Woman faces backlash for putting Christmas tree up

Cassie Needles says the Christmas tree brings joy to her and her family

A woman who puts up her Christmas decorations in September says she ignores those who criticise her.

Cassie Needles from Street in Somerset always puts up her Christmas tree in early September and her pictures have provoked a mixed reaction on social media.

Ms Needles said she puts up the tree after coming back from holiday, when "we're all depressed".

"It's the magic for me. This is like a sacred room to me, we come in and watch movies together, it's a happy place for us," she added.

Ms Needles said if she could, she would keep Christmas decorations up all year

On social media, some people have left comments criticising Ms Needles' decision to put up the tree early.

"A couple of the comments were: 'That's really sad'. I read that comment and thought: 'You're sad for thinking that in the first place'. It's not hurting anybody, people walk by and children are smiling," Ms Needles said.

"So many people look in and smile. For me that sends a tingle inside and you feel happy that you've made someone smile as they walk by."

Ms Needles explained she adds ornaments to the tree to remember people her family have lost.

"My dad passed away a couple of years ago so he has a special ornament. My son lost one of his best friends so he has an ornament. It turned into that kind of tree," she said.

She added that her family still celebrates Halloween.

"We do all the pumpkins, we're just surrounded by Christmas at the same time," Ms Needles said.

"If I could I would probably have it up all the time, when you have the tree lights on watching a film, I could do that all the time."