A driver trying to get into the Christmas spirit has been pulled over by the police after his car was deemed to be potentially dangerous for other motorists.
Poole Police have warned other drivers against taking Christmas decorations too far, as they could issue fines to rulebreakers.
Two officers from the police force in Dorset spotted a vehicle travelling with dazzling Christmas lights earlier this week.
The driver was stopped and spoken to by the police, as they warned him of the offences he was committing.
Posting on social media, Poole Police said: "Whilst on patrol, Sgts Sam & Matt spotted this early Christmas decoration.
"The driver was stopped and given words of advice about the traffic offences he was committing and also reminded about the seriousness of celebrating Christmas before December.
"Displaying red light to the front of a vehicle or other colours to the rear that aren't listed in Road Traffic Regulations an offence and can land you with a £50 fine.
"Whilst this vehicle might look 'sleigh', the actions of this driver could land him on the naughty list."
The driver with Christmas lights on his car was slapped with a fine
|POOLE POLICE
The post was accompanied by several humorous hashtags including "Sgt Grinch" and "Resting Grinch Face".
Commenters found the comedic side of the situation by posting jokes in the comments of the social media post.
One user said: "Who let the Grinch out early? Honestly, get some Xmas spirit."
Another added: "Saw it the other day. My kids were buzzing to see it, more happy than when they seeing a cop car. They aren't blinding lights either like some headlights."
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Drivers could break Highway Code rules by having Christmas lights on their vehicles
| PAMeanwhile, a third questioned: "For all those people saying 'Don't be grumpy', just think about it - why might this not be acceptable? Use your brains perhaps?"
Rule 114 of the Highway Code states that motorists must not use any lights in a way that would dazzle or cause discomfort to other road users.
It is illegal to drive with lights on a vehicle if they obstruct views of the road, confuse other drivers with non-standard colours, or resemble emergency vehicle lights.