Business owners in Kent were left shocked after receiving a “council” order banning Christmas music before December.
The spoof letter – claiming to be from Folkestone and Hythe District Council’s ‘Festive Team’ – was delivered to firms in Kent on Tuesday.
Signed off by a “Simon C. Rooge”, the note reads: “It is my duty to make all businesses in Folkestone aware that it is now a criminal offense to play any type of Christmas music before December 1; as defined under section 25 of the Yule Act 2023.
“Festive-appropriate music henceforth will only be permitted from December 1 through December 26 per annum.”
The prankster went on to claim that police had been granted “special powers” to seize sound systems from any businesses failing to comply with these new laws.
The “non-exhaustive” list of banned songs included Stay Another Day by East 17, and any music from Michael Bublé, Mariah Carey, Slade, Band Aid or Shakin’ Stevens.
The notice continued: “Please visit www.folkestone-hythe.gov.uk/bahhumbug for full details.
“Business owners that break the aforementioned laws this Christmas may be handed a Lifetime Unemployment in Managerial Positions Order Plus Fine & Cancellation Of Audio Licences (L.U.M.P.O.F.C.O.A.L).”
The notice, complete with the council’s purple logo, has prompted the authority to quash claims it is stopping stores from playing festive tunes before December 1.
Folkestone and Hythe District Council responded on X stating: “Okay, we’re not sure we need to say it, but: we don’t have a SC Rooge working for us.
“It isn’t illegal to play Christmas music before December 1 – even if you think it should be frowned upon.”
“Just in case you’ve received a letter pretending to be from our ‘Festive Team’.”
Many social media users loved the prank letter with one user on Facebook stating: “It was funny, sarcastic, and obviously a joke.
“I love it – let there be more! Made me smile.”
Responding to the council’s reply, a local wrote: “I can’t believe that anyone would think it was real.
“Some people lack a sense of humor.”
Another social media user joked: “I think you should double business rates for anyone that plays Bublé at any time of the year.”
With other users supporting the jokesters agenda saying: “It should most definitely be put into effect, and include any putting up of any Christmas trees or decorations too.”
Produced in association with SWNS Talker
