THE oft-repeated axiom "Christmas has come a little early this year" has hit a new high in January 2006, already creating a stir about the Christmas lights.

When will York accept it cannot compete with Leeds if that is what appeals to shoppers in November and December? Judging by the crowds flocking into Coney Street on Saturday mornings (photographed every year in the Evening Press) the visitors do not come for the lights, they are on their way home before lighting-up time.

Why doesn't York acknowledge that the city's principal attractions are the buildings and archaeology which would be enhanced by flood lighting and the neglected river would benefit by fairy lights being stretched below the bridges and reflected in the water, giving double pleasure.

Elizabeth Atkinson,

Moor Lane,

Dringhouses,

York.

Updated: 10:22 Tuesday, January 31, 2006