CHRISTMAS came early to shoppers in Oxford yesterday as larger-than-life ‘Dame Doris Doughnut’ took to the streets to promote the Oxford Playhouse’s annual festive treat.

Dame Doris – aka actor Leon Craig – said he couldn’t wait to welcome everyone to this year’s production of Dick Whittington which starts at the Playhouse on November 30 and continues until January 13.

Mr Craig said: “It’s going to be a fantastic show this year.”

And as the all-important Dame, Mr Craig said he hoped Oxford audiences would appreciate his elegant, fetching and decidedly sophisticated attire.