Brighton writer’s joy at two Christmas hits 30 years apart

The man who co-wrote this year’s Christmas number one song for Kylie Minogue was responsible for another festive chart-topper almost 30 years ago.

Brighton-based songwriter Richard Stannard said both this year’s top of the charts XMAS and 2 Become 1 from the Spice Girls have “a special place in my heart”.

The writer, producer and publisher, known as Biff, wrote on Instagram: “Never thought I’d be posting this.”

He thanked the “amazing fans” and said: “Only possible with the help and love of incredible friends and creatives.”