Christmas is coming early in Fareham this year as traders launch a festive facelift to brighten up the town centre.

Against a background of increased shopping competition in south Hampshire, plans have been made to boost the town's festive appearance by taking a fresh look at the Christmas lighting display in the town centre.

Town Manager George Cantrill said: "We want to give Fareham a brighter look this Christmas and are looking for sponsorship."

The town centre management is a funding contributor and is leading the development of the scheme, but Mr Cantrill stressed individual contributions, large or small, would "enable us to improve the display."

He said there were a number of opportunities for companies to be associated with the scheme through sponsorship.

He said: "We have plans for two cross-street decorations in West Street, one near the Aldi store and the other across the street near Marked and Sparkling.

"All the street lighting columns in the west end of West Street and the Henry Cort precinct are targeted for decoration. We are also negotiating a refreshed display in High Street."