Pictured: A passerby stops to take a photo of Marmite and Méribel, the marmots on display at the top of Alton High Street.

A council which infuriated residents of an affluent market town by replacing the traditional Christmas tree with a giant skiing marmot is set to provoke fury again - by installing TWO of them this year.

The most controversial festive illumination of 2019 is poised to cause double trouble this time as the two 16 foot models are lit up by thousands of LEDs.

Last December the installation of a single 'embarrassing' marmot in Alton, Hants sparked arguments, with many locals angry at the council's decision. SEE OUR COPY FOR FULL DETAILS.

© Ewan Galvin/Solent News & Photo Agency
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