Seasonal goodwill has been replaced by friendly rivalry for two neighbours as they battle it out in a Christmas lights challenge.

When it comes to decorating their houses for the festive season, Jack Eastman and Vic Crookes from Swain House in Bradford like to push the boat out.

Between them they own more than 40 sets of lights, dozens of rooftop decorations and moving statues, a musical carol singer, a flashing sleigh and a two-foot flying snowman.

And both men - who live opposite each other in Swain House Crescent - are adamant their display is top of the tree.

Mr Eastman, 61, is a joiner by trade and the home-made 'Merry Xmas' sign which hangs from the roof covered in lights is his pride and joy.

"People drive from miles around to come and have a look. I've even had a fire engine stop outside the house,'' he said.

"I'm not an exhibitionist, I just love Christmas. It makes me feel good to know other people get enjoyment out my decorations as well."

Mr Crookes, a 42-year-old builder, spent four days putting up his decorations. His favourite festive items include the flying snowman which hangs from his roof. He said: "I switch them on just before the kids come out of school and turn them off when I go to bed."

Because most of the decorations are low voltage, the spectacular displays only use around 20 pence worth of electricity a day.

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