SUMMER'S out, autumn has not quite arrived and the children are enjoying their last few days off school.

Hallowe'en and Bonfire Night are still two months away and there's another half-term holiday before the countdown to Christmas really begins.

But at one Hampshire bowling alley Yuletide celebrations are already under way - with a festive tree welcoming customers as they arrive.

The decorations are up, the baubles are glittering and staff are getting into the festive spirit by singing carols.

And it's all in the name of getting people to plan their Christmas early - and book in for their festive parties before the rush begins. Although they admit it is a little early to be decking the halls, staff at the ten pin alley in Bitterne, Southampton, are getting the festive season underway so people don't miss out on their chance of a Christmas bowling party.

Bitterne Bowl is not the only early Christmas craziness.

In Eastleigh, Laura Hedbridge and Jade Robinson have just been crowned as the town's new Snow Queen and Snow Princess.

To see pictures or read the full story see today's Daily Echo or click on Echo Video News to hear staff at Bitterne Bowl getting in the festive mood.