CHRISTMAS celebrations have changed considerably over the years.

The festivities appear to start so much earlier now than they used to do and go on for far longer.

At one time we would buy our Christmas tree — or put up the rather splendid silver glittery one — just a couple of days before Christmas.

Yet we are already seeing shops and some homes decked out in decorations and we are not even in December yet.

If we have not already done all our Christmas shopping we are made to feel a little late getting the job done and Christmas cards have already started to arrive.

For many of us Christmas was signified by a day filled with fabulous television programmes, including an obligatory film or two.

Today those television shows are available all year round, all day long and through the night too.

Christmas Day for little ones consisted of a large toy and a few smaller ones, a satsuma in a stocking and gifts from extended family.

Today children see Christmas as an opportunity to order a full catalogue of gifts, ticking each one off as they spot it.

It does make you wonder if we have lost the true spirit of Christmas somewhere along the way.

Family will gather for a traditional meal as has always been the way but that traditional meal is, today, just as likely to happen at any point in the year as it is on December 25.

Fewer families than ever will get out the board games and sit playing cards.

Children are more likely to be sitting in front of the computer screen or playing the latest game on their console.

We would love to hear your memories of Christmas traditions?

Did your family always attend church on Christmas morning and was a long walk in the Rivington countryside a Boxing Day treat?

Perhaps you were more than happy with your simple presents on Christmas morning because you understood how times were hard for your parents and every gift you received was treasured.

We would love to fill a page in Looking Back, before Christmas, with festive memories from our readers so do get in touch.

Ring Gayle McBain on 01204 537269 or email gayle.mcbain@nqnw.co.uk and share those memories with other readers.