WHILE most people's thoughts are turning to summer holidays in the sun, an Eastleigh town centre pub is planning to throw a Christmas party with all the trimmings.

July 25 has been earmarked as the day for a lot of "Ho, Ho, Ho" and tinsel magic at the Litten Tree in the High Street.

Although there will still be 153 days to go until the official celebrations, it just doesn't matter as far as the Litten Tree manager James Carreras is concerned.

He said: "We just thought it would be a bit of fun and a way for people to have a more relaxed Christmas.

"Everybody gets so hyped up in December. It all gets a bit much, so we thought this would provide a way for everyone to get dressed up and party just as though it was Christmas."

Yuletide fare will be on the menu for local businesses who want to get into the early Christmas spirit.

Santa Claus will be at the pub during the day for the kids and there are also plans for an electric party on the night of July 25.

An added bonus for revellers will be the opportunity to grab a 15 per cent discount on their December Christmas party for bookings of 12 people or more.

But the whacky ideas at the Litten Tree will not stop on July 25.

"We're hopefully going to have beach party in January," said James.