CHRISTMAS might be nine weeks away - but it's likely we'll be hearing Noddy Holder's dulcet tones singing Merry Xmas Everybody in every shop in the land before the end of the month.

Just don't blame him if you get sick of hearing the Slade song, the Cheshire-based rocker says.

"The trouble is when stores start playing the song now, people blame me," he explains as we meet for a drink in city centre celeb haunt The Living Room.

"It's nothing to do with me whether stores play it or not. Even when I'm out doing my Christmas shopping you can guarantee every shop I walk into is playing that song. I've lived with it for a long time but it just seems to go on and on."

Noddy just laughs off the festive anthem's success as his personal `pension plan' but admits: "Every year some people moan they shouldn't be playing it, some places try and ban it - but they all end up playing it in the end.

"I'm really proud of the song actually. It celebrates its 35th anniversary this year." Given his Christmas connection, it's only fitting that Noddy should launch seasonal charity campaign Streetsmart this week.

Backed by the M.E.N and Harvey Nichols, the scheme raises money for homeless people throughout the festive period.

Diners at some of Greater Manchester's top restaurants - including Gusto, The Living Room, Grill on the Alley and the Yang Sing - are asked to donate just £1 per table over the next few weeks.

Money raised helps homeless people in our region to take part in projects such as allotment-growing and other schemes.

Noddy says: "It's important for people to focus on the homeless at this time of year.

"I know it might be hard for people this year but it's only £1 per table and it gives people real opportunities. It makes you realise how lucky you are."