Not wishing to cast a dampener on this thread I'll just say that I receive no Christmas gifts, nor do I give them. Quite a number of years ago, we decided to notify everyone with whom we exchanged presents that we would, from that date, stop giving them and would instead make donations to nominated charities to the value that we might have spent on our family and friends - and hoped that they would do the same.

This was enthusiastically taken up by all concerned and, since being alone, I have continued this practice each year. Not only do the charities benefit, but we individuals are spared the endless heartache of trying to find gifts to suit and which would not be tucked away unusued at the back of drawers/wardrobes for years afterwards!

I would urge others to take similar steps which also go some way towards reducing the obscene over-commercialism of the Festival.

Oooops! That comes across as being a bit soap-boxy - but I mean what I say!

That stated, I trust everyone enjoyed their Christmas Day, hopefully with family or friends, and that we can all look forward to a brilliant Hogmanay and 2010.

Take care,
Ham.