The Darkness have proved to be one of the hottest new bands of 2003

The band, who will release the single (Christmas Time) Don't Let the Bells End, are currently 5/1, according to bookmakers William Hill.

The only artist ahead of them is the as-yet-un-named Pop Idol winner, which has odds of 3/1.

But Sir Cliff Richard has thrown his hat into the ring, announcing he is releasing a song called Santa's List.

Even before Sir Cliff had had revealed he was to release a Christmas single, William Hill gave him odds of 33/1 to hit the top.

Speaking in an interview on GMTV, Sir Cliff says: "I found a song that's never been recorded before so you won't have heard it until I release it as a single, it's called Santa's List.

"Obviously I like my singles, but only time will tell whether or not it'll be number one at Christmas."

A spokeswoman from William Hill said The Darkness's successful year means they are strong contenders to become Christmas number one.

'Amusing video'

"The Darkness have been a bit of a phenomenon this year," she said. "They have raised their profile by touring with Robbie Williams, and then their album making number one.

"They are specifically doing a Christmas song - with what is supposed to be a very amusing video - and that's bound to have lots of airplay," she said.

But given the huge ratings of the Pop Idol series, the winner off the show would still be favourite.

But William Hill said Christmas was "a time when people buy singles they would never otherwise consider buying - look at Mr Blobby and Bob the Builder".