Counting down to our Christmas playlist

It seems that since lockdown, the Christmas bug has started spreading earlier and earlier.
Many of the big budget Christmas adverts launched on November 1, all competing for the most memorable, star-studded or heart-warming ad.
Every year, we wait in anticipation for the latest John Lewis ad and wonder what the song cover will be, to see the “Holidays are coming” Coca-Cola ad, or what the Aldi carrot will be up to.
The Harry Potter movies tend to start airing on TV in the run up to Christmas. I’m a Celeb and Strictly keep people entertained on an evening whilst they’re cosy, wrapped up in blankets at home with hot chocolate or Baileys.
And let’s not forget Christmas food and some decorations have been spotted in the supermarkets well before Halloween.
One person I spoke to reckons people are starting Christmas festivities earlier to feel more joy as during autumn the weather is dull, wet and cold, evenings are darker, plus there is lots of violence, sadness and frustration in the world.
Many are craving a happy, wholesome distraction.
Another person I spoke to thinks it’s just capitalism – the retail industry taking advantage of the festive fanatics to make more money.
I think both are plausible and likely true.
Could there be another reason too, perhaps?
Every year, the leadership team at Torbay Hospital Radio has a big debate on when we can start playing Christmas songs – some of us think mid-November seems appropriate – giving us six weeks to play our favourite Christmas tunes and requests.
Yet some bah humbugs in the team say otherwise, half-jokingly suggesting just one week before the big day!
What date do you think would be best for us to start broadcasting Christmas songs on Torbay Hospital Radio?
Have you got your tree up and playing Christmas music yet? Done all your Christmas shopping? Or are you like me, and not even considered what to get whom yet?
When it comes to the festive season, I tend to start my Christmas celebrations from December 1, putting up the tree and decorating my home, and then making the most of the wonderful Christmas markets, and activities that the bay and other parts of Devon have on offer.
I also watch an abundance of Christmas films – Home Alone, The Santa Clause, and Elf being some of my favourites. What are your favourite Christmas films?
Torbay Hospital Radio provides music and entertainment to the patients and staff at Torbay Hospital 24/7. The charity is run and supported by a wonderful team of volunteers. Tune in and share your Christmas stories, traditions and requests.
The team and I will also be broadcasting live on Torbay Hospital Radio (95.9 FM or torbayhospitalradio.com/listenlive) from 8am on Christmas Day.
Tune in to share your requests and dedications.