1980s

Episode 4 takes us back to the 1980s, the era of charity singles, random one-offs and iconic festive records. The decade continued where the ’70s left off, with novelty and one-off successes for grandmas, Italian lovers and a random ’50s re-release. There are also Christmas classics for years to come for Wham, The Pogues, Shakin’ Stevens, Cliff Richard and the charity behemoth of Band Aid. Full Christmas number ones (look away if you don’t want ‘spoilers’!): 1980: St Winifred’s School Choir – ‘There’s No One Quite Like Grandma’ 1981: The Human League – ‘Don’t You Want Me’ 1982: Renee & Renato – ‘Save Your Love’ 1983: The Flying Pickets – ‘Only You’ 1984: Band Aid – ‘Do They Know it’s Christmas’ 1985: Shakin’ Stevens – ‘Merry Christmas Everyone’ 1986: Jackie Wilson – ‘Reet Petite’ 1987: Pet Shop Boys – ‘Always on My Mind’ 1988: Cliff Richard – ‘Mistletoe & Wine’ 1989: Band Aid II – ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas’