FESTIVE ALBUM IN PIPELINE

IS it too early to be dusting off the Christmas baubles? Not if you’re Robbie Williams.

The occasional Take That-er is already plotting a festive album, even though there’s still leftover turkey in his freezer.

Over the years Rob has released pop songs, rap records and swing LPs, but he’s never recorded a full Christmas collection.

That’s set to change this year, as I hear he will be recording a collection of Yuletide classics and new songs written by himself and his regular songwriting partner,

The singer, who hits Las Vegas this year, is still finalising the tracklist but expect the album to include some of his favourite festive swing tunes as he, and his fans, love that genre.

He has already started working with producers and

who joined Robbie at his home studio in February to work on the LP, where they laid down several ideas.

The Angels hitmaker is set for a busy 2019 as he has just released Under The Radar Volume 3, a collection of rarities and B-sides, and has penned the songs for the stage musical adaptation of

children’s book The Boy In The Dress with Guy.

A source said: “Robbie wants to keep busy and release as many records as possible. He is well aware of the modern trend for pop stars to drop new music on a regular basis, and he realises he’s got to match that pace to stay relevant.

“The three-year album and tour cycle is dead. He’s never done a Christmas album and he wants to do one for his fans as he is sure they will love it.”

Our source added: “He also thinks it is a nice album to make for his wife and kids to enjoy as, since he has become a dad, Christmas has become a special time for him.”

Robbie – who has three children, Teddy, six, Charlton, four, and five-month-old Coco – and his wife have been confirmed to be returning as judges on The X Factor later this year.

And Robbie will showcase his new tunes on the live shows with boss approval.

The singer previously had a No1 album at Christmas when his LP Swings Both Ways took the top spot in 2013.

And he achieved the festive No1 when his duet with Somethin’ Stupid took the top spot in 2001.

So don’t be surprised if you find a Robbie in your stocking.