NOT only is this semi-detached home a dazzling treat for the eyes - but it is musical too.

Tony and Karen Challis have decked their home in dozens of Christmas lights for this year's Daily Echo Haskins Festive Homes competition.

As well as flashing lights along the roof, moving reindeers and swinging Santas, there is a singing Father Christmas in the porch.

"We've had a lot of fun with the singing Santa," said 38-year-old taxi driver Tony. "When people come to visit we always turn it on, and people walking past seem to enjoy it."

He and 44-year-old receptionist Karen have spent more than £1,000 on their Christmas collection over the past decade. And what started off as a tinsel treat for daughter Sarah, now an 11-year-old Oaklands pupil, is now a major winter-time hobby.

"I don't think ours is the best in the city but we've had to scrimp and save for these decorations and it means a lot to us," said Tony, who lives in Warren Avenue, Shirley Warren.

On Friday, he will find out if their seasonal home is the most festive in Southampton, when the Daily Echo announces the lucky competition winner.

There is a top prize of £300 Haskins vouchers available, plus two runner-up prizes of £50.