A spoof letter purportedly from a Kent council claims shop owners will be breaking the law if they play Christmas songs before December.

The fake note, allegedly sent by Folkestone and Hythe District Council's 'Festive Team', was delivered to companies yesterday.

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.

Signed off by an “Simon C. Rooge”, the note reads: “This letter is with regard to new laws that have come into effect as of October 2023 that may impact your business leading up to the Christmas season.

“It is my duty to make all businesses in Folkestone aware that it is now a criminal offence 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.

A “non-exhaustive” list of banned songs – including Stay Another Day by East 17 and Micheal Bublé – was then mentioned.

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).

“Please do not hesitate to contact my office for further clarity on the matter."

Responding on X, formerly known as Twitter, Folkestone and Hythe District Council said: "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’.”

After a photo of the fake letter was shared on Facebook, one resident said: "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 humour.”

One social media user joked: “I think you should double business rates for anyone that plays Buble at any time of the year.”

Another added: “It should most definitely be put into effect, and include any putting up of any Christmas trees or decorations too.”