THE DARKNESS - THE DARKNESS BRING CHRISTMAS CHEER TO FANS

British retro-rockers THE DARKNESS claim their Christmas single is a "gift to fans" - but not an anthem for "gluttony, consumerism or bloated, flatulent post-dinner snoozing".

The spandex-clad band have recorded CHRISTMAS TIME (DON'T LET THE BELLS END) - which is among the favourites to become the British Christmas number one single this year (03) - to pay homage to the season that unites people.

Singer JUSTIN HAWKINS writes on the band's website, "In honour of the marvellous support bestowed upon us by the sweet people of the British Isles, we giveth unto thee the gift that keeps on giving.

"It might be a Christmas song but it still rocks in the unique Darkness fashion. Christmas Time (Don't Let The Bells End) is not an anthem for gluttony, consumerism or bloated, flatulent post-dinner snoozing.

"It is an acknowledgement that 'tis the season which affords us a greater tolerance and brings folk together."