A motorist who wrapped his entire car in Christmas lights was pulled over by police and given a formal warning - with officers joking he might “end up on Santa’s naughty list.”
The brightly lit vehicle was seen in Poole, Dorset, covered from top to bottom in multicoloured festive lights. Dorset Police stopped the driver and explained that, while the display was eye-catching, it breached Road Traffic Regulations.
Officers told him the decorations could lead to a £50 fine, as showing red lights at the front of a vehicle - or using colours at the rear that aren’t legally approved - is an offence.
A police spokesperson said the driver was given advice about the rules he was breaking and was also “reminded about the seriousness of celebrating Christmas before December.” They added: “While the car might look ‘sleigh’, the driver’s actions could put him on the naughty list.”
Despite the warning, many people praised the festive design. One resident said it “looks cool,” while another joked that police were being “Sergeant Grinch.” Others questioned whether removing the red front lights would make it legal, and some suggested officers should focus on “real crime.”
One commenter added: “If I saw this on the road, I wouldn’t mistake it for brake lights - I’d just think, ‘Wow, that’s a car covered in Christmas lights.’ I really don’t see the issue.”