CHRISTMAS is back at Huddersfield Town Hall.
Council leader Robert Light announced that the Town Hall sign will wish residents Merry Christmas rather than the previous Season's Greetings.
And the Conservative blasted his Lib Dem predecessors for their political correctness.
He said: "The old sign was part of the politically correct culture that used to prevail whereby the word Christmas was pushed backstage.
"In the past the PC zealots tried to make us reserved about Christmas and I don't think that's right.
"It should be a magical time and I hope we have the best Christmas in Kirklees for many a year."
Clr Light added he thought people of all religions enjoyed Christmas.
He said: "I think many non-Christians can't understand why the council didn't celebrate Christmas in the past.
"It's the major festival in this country and, whatever your faith, there's no reason why you can't celebrate it."
But senior Lib Dem councillor John Smithson ridiculed the allegation that his party had downplayed Christmas while in power.
He said: "It's total rubbish.
"The term season's greetings appears on thousands of Christmas cards.
"It's a Christian festival and virtually everyone respects that and enjoys the different cultures of Kirklees."
Christmas lights are switched on in Huddersfield next Thursday.
There will also be an ice rink in the town, along with ones in Dewsbury and Heckmondwike.
Council deputy leader Ken Sims is hoping for a big boost to the Kirklees economy.
He said: "We've worked with as many organisations as possible to pull this all together.
"Hopefully this will bring more people into our towns which is good for business and good for regeneration."
