Britain has spoken and much to our delight, Simon Cowell and his X Factor machine failed to make it to the top of the charts for this year’s Christmas number one. Anything that wipes that smug grin from Cowell’s greedy face makes us happy! And even better still, it was the Miltary Wives Choir with Gareth Malone who conquered the charts this year, with all proceeds going to the Royal British Legion and the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA). This ties in nicely with the whole festive spirit and we tip our hats to them.

Hearing the news yesterday got us thinking about our favourite Christmas number ones from years gone by, and we thought we’d share some of them with you. We’ve cherry-picked a few for your listening pleasure. Turn up the volume, pour yourself a mulled wine and enjoy!

Elvis Presley – Return to Sender (1962)

The Beatles – Day Tripper / We Can Work It Out (1965)

Rolf Harris – Two Little Boys (1969)

Slade – Merry Xmas Everybody (1973)

Shakin’ Stevens – Merry Christmas Everyone (1985)

Michael Jackson – Earth Song (1995)

Rage Against the Machine – Killing in the Name (2009)

We hope you enjoyed our little Christmas number ones playlist folks. Have a brilliant Boxing Day and don’t forget to check our site for some of the best tshirts around. Merry Christmas 8ballers!