Iconic stores battle it out for Christmas presence
Two of London's most famous department stores - Harrods and Selfridges on Oxford Street - are unveiling their Christmas ranges this week, earlier than ever.

Harrods, which unveiled its Christmas Shop yesterday, said that it has always launched its Christmas collection after the summer Sales, but this year it was a month later than last year.

Selfridges's festive area will open tomorrow, a week earlier than last year and 15 days ahead of the 2004 launch date.

Selfridges gift buyer Geraldine James said: 'Christmas is coming earlier each year. I can foresee a time when we offer a capsule Christmas collection throughout the year.'

The department store sold 1,000 baubles within a week of opening its Christmas shop last year.