Many readers may have noticed ribbons of LED lights hung across the windows of houses in the region.

It may be confusing to some non-Muslims as the lights may give the impression Muslims are also celebrating Christmas but haven’t quite grasped decorations need to be removed after twelve days!

The lights celebrate the birth of birth of another prophet – Mohammad (peace be upon him). Not all Muslims believe such celebrations are appropriate but that is a different article altogether You can go to some neighbourhoods now and they have been transformed and the lights are a wonderful sight to behold.

The question is why are these displays seem so noticeable now - in the present?

Most people probably don’t remember anything like this ten years ago.

Let me try my theory: Muslims use a lunar calendar which is 10 days shorter that the Gregorian calendar meaning the event moves 10 days closer every year, so in broad terms it moves a month every three years.

Ten years ago this event would have been in early April, where the days were longer.

Having lights in the windows would have not have had the dramatic affect they do now when its dark by 4pm.

Plus inevitably technology has moved on – now you get these super bright, robust lights and at a reasonable price.

It’s not that people have never publicly acknowledged their happiness. In the past a poster in the window would have been sufficient.

The highlight for me is the processions that take place across the region.

They are full of smiling faces and good humour – sweets, hot drinks , samosays are all handed out to those braving the cold weather.

I have always returned armed with pocketful of sweets and badges for the kids.

There is an incongruence however seeing people wearing garb that is better suited to temperature is 100 degree Fahrenheit that the 40 degrees we witness here .

The cold weather isn’t the best back drop to the rich array of colour.

It’s not lost on me that in 2017 both events may occur around Dec 25th.

What an opportunity to celebrate together. Lancashire towns will be the best lit town in the world.

Ameen to that.