Traditionally, extra candles were lit at this time of year to ward off the dark and threatening forces of mid-winter.

But today we decorate everything from shrubs, walls and windows to roofs and chimney pots to create a little slice of extra magic at Christmas.

Here, News photographers have captured a handful of houses which have made that extra effort.

They include next-door neighbours Andy and Jennie Long and Kevin and Dianne Clissett, of White Dirt Lane, Clanfield, who turn their homes into stunning beacons of light for charity each year.

Andy, 43, said: 'In the past we've raised hundreds of pounds for charities like the Rowans Hospice and the air ambulance. This year we decided it would be for Bliss, the special care baby charity, which gives vital support and care to premature and sick babies across the UK.

'We've been decorating our houses for more than 20 years and we know that many people come a long way to see the lights.'