Covid-19: Late Christmas decorations 'light up lockdown'

Tankerton turned its lights back on in January to "add sparkle to lockdown"

Christmas decorations have been left up in town centres, houses and gardens to lift the mood during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Tankerton in Whitstable, Kent, turned its lights back on in January to "add sparkle to lockdown" while Romsey, Hampshire, maintained its festive display until this week to "make everyone feel happier".

Some households have kept Christmas trees and lights up in February to "provide joy during this difficult time".

A spectacular annual display on a house in Meole Village, Shrewsbury, has raised more than £1,000 for charity after its owner said he was overwhelmed with requests to keep the lights on.

Alistair Stubbs' annual display for charity in Meole Village, Shrewsbury, was kept up by public demand

Romsey's Christmas lights were left up to "bring a little joy in trying times", the town council said

Ali Gilbert said she hoped to "cheer people up" with her NHS tribute in Southampton

Andy Hollis said his Bedford decorations "bring joy to the street"

Some householders have kept their Christmas trees up in February