A RADIO station in the Cotswolds has given Santa the sack by refusing to play Christmas songs this festive season.

In what is believed to be the first decision of its kind in UK radio, Nik Fox, station manager of The Fox, which serves Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire, said: “We think everybody will get sick of Jingle Bells, Slade, and worn out Christmas nonsense when they’re in the shops, and they really don’t need commercial radio stations ramming the festive season down their throat as well."

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He added: "Our competitors have gone as far as to launch stations like 'Heart Extra Christmas' which is playing nothing but Christmas songs, so if people want that kind of thing its out there, but for the large number of people who would rather not feel like they’re living in Lapland, we’re offering a safe alternative.”

Those looking to avoid all things festive this year can find The Fox online at foxcotswolds.com or via radio directories such as TuneIn and myTuner.