Christmas came early for this Scottish couple who put up decorations in October

Christmas came two months early for neighbours of a house fully decked out with festive lights - to cheer people up during the coronavirus pandemic.

Ian Cochran, 68, has been illuminating his house in Hamilton, South Lanarkshire, for around 35 years - usually in December.

But the granddad-of-two unpacked his Christmas decorations at the end of September, and spent two weeks fixing them to the front of the house.

The lights were finally switched on on October 1, to the delight of neighbours, particularly children.

Christmas lights are up on the home of Ian and Helen Cochran in Hamilton.

Ian said: "We find it very gratifying seeing the reaction to people of all ages enjoying them.

"I thought about it early September knowing many people will be depressed with dark winter nights approaching and possibly no contact with anyone then, and nearer Christmas, with their families.

"It makes us feel happier knowing it's brought some smiles during these troubled times."

He is hoping businesses might like to sponsor the display to help with running costs.

Ian Cochran, 68, has been illuminating his house in Hamilton, South Lanarkshire, for around 35 years - usually in December.

Proud wife Helen, 68, added: "The lights have been going up for 35 years.

"We started in our last house, and then moved here.

"People are coming out to look at them.

"Somebody was dancing outside, "Ian put them out to cheer people up."

The lights are only being switched on at weekends, in the run up to Christmas.

Helen added: "You should hear the kids screaming.

"One car was pulling up and as they pulled away, another was pulling up.

"It is a bit of cheer."

Ian’s daughter, Nicola, posted a photo of the house proudly on Facebook, telling friends: “Christmas has finally arrived in Hamilton!”

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