The stockings are already out in Birmingham as preparations begin for the return of its world-famous Frankfurt Christmas Market.

With bins overflowing due to strikes, locals were missing some of the Christmas cheer – it is October after all.

Set to run from Saturday, November 1 until Christmas Eve, the largest German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria brings the city centre to life each winter and is seen as a sure sign that Christmas is on its way.

But not everyone is feeling the festive cheer just yet, as the arrival of the giant 65-foot Christmas tree and market stalls in Victoria Square has sparked debate among locals.

Some argue it’s far too early for Christmas decorations, especially with Halloween and Bonfire Night still to come. Richard McQuaid, 39, of Kings Heath,

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