WE ASKED readers to send us their pictures of Christmas decorations and lights this year - and here are some of the best.

Across Sussex people have been getting ready for the big day with festive displays in their homes and work places.

The Argus has received lots of pictures from readers and have put them together in a gallery.

They show glittering indoor and outdoor displays from Newhaven, Portslade, Worthing and Brighton.

Some of the houses have added a charitable element to their decor, encouraging visitors to donate money to good causes when they stop to look at the lights.

Saxifrage Way in Worthing is raising money for Air Ambulance Kent Surrey and Sussex and has had a brilliant response.

Residents have worked together to create the annual display, covering houses from top to bottom in shining Santas, terrific trees and a whole host of sparkling creations.

In Brazen Close, Newhaven, Marc Clark is taking donations for The British Lung Foundation.

About 20 houses in Gorse Close in Mile Oak have lit up for to help raise funds for The Rocking Horse Appeal for sick children.

The close decorate every year and utilise every part of the garden for the display including palm trees in the front gardens.

One of our readers, Jo Rogers, sent us a photo of her daughter's fairy garden, a lovely flower bed decorated with light-up snowflakes and flowers.

Sue Carrick has created a display around her home, featuring a Santa climbing up the window and a garden scene with reindeer and snowmen.

Even places of business have got into the Christmas spirit this year, with hair salon owner Katie O'Reilly turning the shop front into a festive space with a doorway arch, plenty of lights and tree.

Thank you to everyone who sent in photos and Merry Christmas!

Have you got a story for us? Email news@theargus.co.uk or contact us here.

Follow us on FacebookTwitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

Sign up to our newsletter to get updates sent straight to your inbox.

You can also call us on 01273 021 400.