The Hammond family spent hours decking the outside of their New Addington home with lights and were only too keen to show off their hard work. The family, who live in Thursley Crescent, are the first entrants in the Guardian's Christmas lights competition
Schoolchildren from Croydon spread a little festive cheer by performing carols for shoppers. Pupils from Cumnor House School, Heavers Farm Primary and Old Palace Prep School entertained Christmas shoppers in the Whitgift Centre with traditional songs
Despite a tough grant settlement the council's deputy leader believes the borough should still only see a five per cent rise in council tax. Croydon Council will receive a 4.4 per cent rise in its Government grant bringing the figure to £273,362,000
The headteacher of a school criticised by Ofsted inspectors for being ineffective, has said it is up to the challenge of changing its fortunes. Christina Clark, who runs Winterbourne Nursery and Infant School, found her school placed in special measures
