Roberts spots a festive opportunity for shredded turkey

Turkey is a Christmas favourite, but could it have a bigger role on festive menus beyond the traditional roast dinner?

North Wales food manufacturer Roberts of Port Dinorwic thinks so. 

The meal solutions specialist is encouraging foodservice operators to consider shredded turkey for Christmas sandwiches, loaded fries, tacos and other handheld dishes.

Roberts’ research into the UK Christmas market and street-food sector found plenty of pulled pork, loaded fries, Yorkshire pudding wraps and gyros, while turkey remains comparatively underrepresented. The company sees potential for the versatile ingredient across Christmas markets, pubs, hospitality, contract catering and food-to-go.

A prepared shredded turkey base could help busy kitchens offer several festive dishes with less preparation. Roberts suggests hot sandwiches with stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce, Yorkshire pudding wraps, festive loaded fries, tacos and pressed wraps.

Miriam Williams, Commercial Director at Roberts of Port Dinorwic, told That's Christmas 365: “Turkey is synonymous with Christmas, but there’s an opportunity to be much more creative with how it appears on festive menus.

“The real benefit of shredded turkey is its versatility. One high-quality base ingredient can become a hot festive bap, loaded fries, or a taco, helping operators create menu variety while simplifying preparation, improving consistency and reducing waste.”

A festive ingredient all year round

Roberts believes shredded turkey could earn a place on menus beyond Christmas, too. With different flavours and accompaniments, the same base ingredient could be used in jerk, BBQ, taco and bao-style dishes.

The idea also reflects Roberts’ wider work with shredded proteins. The company develops bespoke solutions using different meats, as well as vegetarian and vegan options such as tofu and emerging ingredients including lion’s mane mushroom.

Williams added: “The bigger opportunity is shredded proteins more broadly. Operators increasingly need ingredients that deliver flexibility without adding complexity in the kitchen.

“We want Roberts to be the partner operators come to for shredded solutions, whether that’s meat, poultry or innovative plant-based alternatives, helping turn one versatile ingredient into multiple commercially successful dishes.”

For more information, visit Roberts of Port Dinorwic, roberts-wales.co.uk or find the company on LinkedIn.

String Vests for Christmas? Could This Unlikely Fashion Classic Be Making a Comeback?

Looking for an unusual Christmas present? How about something that was once found in practically every British man's underwear drawer? The humble string vest

Yes, really! Those extraordinary garments resembling fishing nets, which were enormously popular during the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, might just deserve another look.

But were they genuinely useful, or simply another peculiar fashion fad that deserved to disappear?

Surprisingly, there's some rather clever science behind them.

The String Vest: A Norwegian Invention

Although many people associate string vests with British working men, their origins lie in Norway.

In the 1920s, Norwegian military officer Henrik Natvig Brun began experimenting with a revolutionary form of underwear.

His inspiration came from fishing nets. He believed that creating a garment with large holes would help regulate body temperature.

The resulting invention became known as the Brynje string vest.

By the 1950s, string vests had become enormously popular throughout Britain.

Miners, builders, factory workers and ordinary men wore them beneath their shirts.

They were inexpensive, practical and, according to their supporters, remarkably comfortable.

But How Could Something Full of Holes Keep You Warm?

Here's where things become interesting.

The theory behind string vests is that their open construction creates pockets of air between the skin and outer clothing.

Air is an excellent insulator when it remains relatively still.

Consequently, wearing a string vest beneath a shirt can help trap warm air close to the body.

However, when the wearer becomes active and starts perspiring, the mesh construction allows moisture and excess heat to escape more readily.

In other words, the humble string vest was designed to help keep people warm when they were cold and comfortable when they were hot.

It sounds almost too good to be true!

Did They Actually Work?

Remarkably, yes.

In 1955, the British military conducted experiments involving soldiers stationed in Egypt.

Temperatures reached approximately 37°C, and researchers compared different types of underwear.

The soldiers generally reported feeling cooler and experiencing less uncomfortable sticking between their clothing and skin when wearing string vests.

However, despite these advantages, most were reluctant to continue wearing them!

Nevertheless, the principle behind string vests has survived.

Modern outdoor clothing manufacturers still produce mesh base layers using similar technology.

Today's versions frequently incorporate sophisticated synthetic fibres designed to manage moisture and improve comfort.

Indeed, Norwegian manufacturer Brynje continues producing technical mesh underwear for outdoor enthusiasts.

So Why Did String Vests Disappear?

Fashion, unfortunately, can be cruel.

By the 1980s and 1990s, string vests had acquired a decidedly unfashionable reputation.

Their association with television characters such as Rab C. Nesbitt certainly didn't help!

What had once represented practical, sensible clothing became something of a national joke.

Eventually, conventional cotton vests and modern thermal underwear largely replaced them.

Yet the string vest never completely disappeared.

Its influence continued through punk fashion, Jamaican dancehall culture, sportswear and outdoor clothing.

Could String Vests Make a Christmas Comeback?

Why not?

Retro fashions regularly return, and today's consumers are increasingly interested in clothing that combines practicality with unusual design.

A traditional string vest could make an amusing stocking filler for someone who remembers wearing one decades ago.

Meanwhile, a modern technical mesh base layer might make a genuinely useful Christmas present for walkers, cyclists, gardeners and outdoor workers.

Of course, it's worth remembering that the insulating benefits depend on wearing suitable clothing over the mesh. A string vest worn alone isn't going to provide much protection against a freezing British winter!

And cotton versions won't necessarily perform as well as modern moisture-managing fabrics during strenuous activity.

A Christmas Gift With a Difference

At That's Christmas 365, we love discovering unusual gifts with fascinating histories.

The string vest certainly qualifies.

It's inexpensive in its traditional form, wonderfully nostalgic and backed by a surprisingly sensible scientific principle.

And while we wouldn't necessarily recommend wearing one to the office Christmas party without a shirt over it, there's something rather appealing about giving a present that combines history, humour and practicality.

Perhaps Father Christmas should consider wearing one beneath his famous red suit?

After all, delivering presents to millions of homes in a single night must be rather sweaty work!

That's Christmas 365 says: Never underestimate the humble string vest. Sometimes the best ideas are the ones that have been around for generations!

You can shop for modern string vests at our online affiliate link shop here https://link.amazon/B021OkVWl

Should Christians Celebrate Halloween? Perhaps Our Vicar Has a Point

As Halloween approaches, perhaps it is time for churches to reclaim the Christian significance of All Hallows' Eve and offer families something better?

Halloween is almost upon us, and once again our shops are filled with witches, skeletons, ghosts, cobwebs and increasingly gruesome decorations.

For many people, particularly children, it is simply an opportunity to dress up, enjoy a party and collect a few sweets.

But should Christians really be joining in?

Our own. young, vicar has made his position quite clear. He believes Christians should avoid Halloween celebrations.

Initially, some people might regard that as rather old-fashioned. After all, isn't Halloween simply a bit of harmless fun?

However, the more I think about his position, the more I wonder whether he has a very valid point.

And perhaps the Church of England, along with other Christian denominations, should be doing considerably more to provide a meaningful alternative.

Halloween: Have We Forgotten Its Christian Connections?

There is something rather ironic about the modern Halloween celebrations.

The name Halloween comes from All Hallows' Eve, the evening before All Saints' Day, celebrated on 1 November.

All Saints' Day is an important occasion in the Christian calendar, commemorating the saints and celebrating lives dedicated to faith, service and goodness.

The following day, 2 November, is All Souls' Day, traditionally associated with remembering those who have died.

Yet these important Christian observances have become overshadowed by a commercial celebration increasingly dominated by frightening imagery.

Halloween also incorporates customs associated with older seasonal traditions, although the precise historical relationship between those traditions and Christian observances remains a matter of debate.

Whatever its origins, today's Halloween bears little resemblance to a Christian celebration of holiness, remembrance and hope.

Instead, we have an industry devoted to selling horror.

Is Halloween Really Harmless Fun?

I have no particular objection to children enjoying themselves.

A pumpkin lantern, a fancy-dress party or a few sweets are hardly the greatest threats facing Christianity.

And I certainly wouldn't suggest that every family participating in Halloween is somehow rejecting Christian values.

Nevertheless, there is a difference between harmless entertainment and actively celebrating themes that some Christians find incompatible with their beliefs.

Some Halloween decorations have become remarkably disturbing.

Realistic severed limbs, blood-covered figures, demonic imagery and representations of violence are now commonplace.

Do we really need to introduce young children to such things in the name of seasonal entertainment?

Christianity, after all, is a religion centred on love, compassion, forgiveness, hope and the triumph of light over darkness.

Perhaps our vicar is simply reminding us that Christians should consider carefully what they choose to celebrate.

That seems an entirely reasonable position.

But Should Churches Simply Say No?

Here is where I think the discussion becomes particularly interesting.

It is one thing for a church to discourage participation in Halloween.

It is quite another to provide families with an attractive alternative.

If churches simply tell children that Halloween is wrong, without offering something enjoyable in its place, they risk appearing unnecessarily negative.

Children see their friends enjoying parties, dressing up and collecting sweets.

Surely it would be far more constructive to invite them to something equally exciting, but with a distinctly Christian message?

And the good news is that some churches are already doing precisely that.

Light Parties: A Wonderful Christian Alternative

Across Britain, churches have begun organising Light Parties as alternatives to traditional Halloween celebrations.

Rather than focusing on fear and darkness, these events celebrate friendship, happiness, kindness and light.

Imagine a parish church filled with colourful decorations, cheerful music and children enjoying games, crafts and refreshments.

There could be lantern-making workshops, storytelling, singing, treasure hunts and opportunities to learn about the lives of Christian saints.

Children could even dress as historical figures, angels or their favourite heroes.

And yes, there could still be plenty of sweets!

The important difference would be the message.

Instead of celebrating darkness, the church would be celebrating light.

I suspect many parents, including some who are not regular churchgoers, would welcome such an opportunity.

What About All Saints' and All Souls' Days?

I also believe churches have an opportunity to restore greater public awareness of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day.

How many people outside regular church congregations even know what these occasions represent?

All Saints' Day could become an opportunity to celebrate inspirational Christians whose lives have made a difference to others.

Churches might organise family events featuring stories of courage, compassion and self-sacrifice.

All Souls' Day offers something equally important, although rather more reflective.

It provides an opportunity to remember loved ones who are no longer with us.

For families experiencing bereavement, particularly those facing their first Christmas without someone special, this could be immensely meaningful.

Imagine a candlelit remembrance service where people are invited to remember parents, grandparents, husbands, wives, children and friends.

Names could be entered into a remembrance book, candles lit and prayers offered.

Such services could be open to everyone, regardless of whether they regularly attend church.

At a time when Halloween frequently presents death as something frightening or entertaining, the Christian tradition offers a much more compassionate approach.

Could Halloween Become the Beginning of the Journey Towards Christmas?

There is another reason why I believe churches should take this opportunity seriously.

Halloween falls just eight weeks before Christmas.

As the evenings grow darker and the weather becomes colder, we begin looking forward to the warmth, generosity and fellowship associated with the festive season.

And at the heart of Christmas is the Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

The Gospel of John tells us:

"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." — John 1:5

Surely that is a wonderful message to share at the end of October?

Imagine churches organising a Festival of Light around Halloween, followed by All Saints' celebrations and All Souls' remembrance services.

These could lead naturally into community events, charity collections, Advent services, carol concerts and Christmas celebrations.

A lantern-making afternoon in October might introduce a family to their local church.

That same family might return for an Advent event in November.

And perhaps they would then attend a Christmas service in December.

Not because anyone had pressured them into doing so, but because they had discovered a welcoming Christian community.

Of course, Advent has its own important place in the Church's calendar, and there is no need to begin Christmas celebrations prematurely.

Nevertheless, the weeks between Halloween and Christmas offer churches a valuable opportunity to engage with their communities.

Could This Help Churches Reach New Families?

There is another consideration.

Many churches are understandably concerned about declining attendance and the challenge of encouraging younger families to become involved in parish life.

Yet Halloween demonstrates something rather interesting.

Families are perfectly willing to participate in seasonal community activities when those activities are enjoyable, accessible and welcoming.

Perhaps churches could learn something from that enthusiasm.

A well-organised Light Party could introduce children and parents to their local church in a relaxed and friendly environment.

It could also provide opportunities for older members of the congregation to become involved, helping with refreshments, crafts and activities.

Such events need not require enormous budgets.

A few decorations, some volunteers, refreshments and a programme of enjoyable activities could be enough.

Most importantly, they could help demonstrate that Christianity is not simply about rules and restrictions.

It is also about fellowship, generosity, joy and belonging.

So, Does Our Vicar Have a Point?

I believe he does.

His concerns about Halloween deserve to be taken seriously.

Christians should surely be prepared to question the messages behind the celebrations they participate in, rather than simply following commercial trends.

However, I also believe that churches should approach the subject positively.

There is little to be gained from condemning families who regard Halloween as innocent entertainment.

Different Christians will continue to reach different conclusions, and those differences should be respected.

But if churches believe that Halloween places too much emphasis on darkness, fear and disturbing imagery, surely the most effective response is to offer something brighter.

Something welcoming.

Something that children will remember fondly.

And something that reflects the Christian message of hope.

A Final Thought from That's Christmas 365

Here at That's Christmas 365, we celebrate the joy of Christmas throughout the year.

But Christmas is about much more than presents, decorations, food and festivities.

It is about love, kindness, generosity, family, faith and hope.

And perhaps those are precisely the values churches should be emphasising as October draws to a close.

Our vicar believes Christians should avoid Halloween celebrations.

Whether every Christian agrees with him is another matter.

But I think he has raised an important question that deserves a thoughtful response.

Rather than simply asking Christians to turn their backs on Halloween, perhaps our churches should open their doors and invite families to celebrate something better.

A celebration of light rather than darkness.

Hope rather than fear.

Love rather than horror.

And what better way to begin preparing for the season when Christians celebrate the arrival of the Light of the World?

What do you think? Is our vicar right to discourage Halloween celebrations? Should churches organise more Light Parties and Christian alternatives? Or can Christians enjoy Halloween without compromising their faith?

We would love to hear your thoughts.

Mavala Nail Varnish: The Christmas Gift That Scores an Incredible 15 Out of 10!

That's Christmas 365 has a very special Christmas gift recommendation this year, and it comes with an extraordinary endorsement from my wife. 

She's giving Mavala nail varnish an astonishing 15 out of 10!

Now, before anyone suggests that my wife might be exaggerating, let me explain why she's so enthusiastic.

My wife is a hardworking soul. She's certainly not someone who spends her days sitting around doing nothing, carefully protecting her manicure from the rigours of everyday life.

Quite the opposite!

She's constantly busy, whether it's tackling household jobs, cleaning, cooking, gardening, decorating or any of the countless other activities that seem to fill her days.

And therein lies the problem.

For more than 20 years, she's struggled to find a nail varnish that can withstand her busy lifestyle.

Over the years, she's tried all sorts of brands, including some very expensive products that promise exceptional durability, beautiful finishes and long-lasting results.

Unfortunately, the reality has usually been rather disappointing.

Even the expensive nail varnishes rarely survive more than a day before showing signs of wear.

Chipping, peeling and general deterioration have been familiar frustrations.

Until now!

Enter Mavala. The Nail Varnish That Changed Everything

My wife recently discovered Mavala nail varnish, and to say she's delighted would be something of an understatement.

In fact, she's absolutely thrilled!

For the first time in more than two decades, she's found a nail varnish that genuinely stands up to the demands of her everyday life.

And that's no small achievement.

Unlike so many products she's tried previously, Mavala has impressed her with its staying power.

It's not simply a case of the colour looking lovely when first applied. What matters is how well it survives afterwards.

For someone who is constantly using her hands, that's the ultimate test.

And Mavala has passed with flying colours.

Why Mavala Makes Such a Wonderful Christmas Present

Christmas shopping can be surprisingly difficult, particularly when you're trying to find something that's both attractive and genuinely useful.

Beauty products are always popular presents, but there's something especially satisfying about discovering a product that actually delivers what the recipient wants.

Mavala offers a range of nail colours, making it possible to choose something to suit different personalities, outfits and occasions.

Perhaps your recipient loves sophisticated reds, delicate pinks, elegant neutral shades or something a little more adventurous?

A carefully selected collection of Mavala nail varnishes could make a delightful Christmas stocking filler or a thoughtful addition to a larger beauty gift hamper.

And because the brand offers its distinctive little bottles, it's also possible to give someone a selection of colours rather than committing to just one.

The Best Recommendation Comes From Experience

Here at That's Christmas 365, we love discovering Christmas gift ideas that bring genuine pleasure.

But there's something particularly rewarding about being able to recommend a product because someone in our own household has tried it and absolutely loves it.

My wife's enthusiasm for Mavala is entirely genuine.

After more than 20 years of disappointment with nail varnishes, including expensive brands, she's finally found something that works for her.

And believe me, she's not easily impressed when it comes to products that promise more than they deliver!

Her verdict? An emphatic 15 out of 10.

Not 9 out of 10.

Not even a perfect 10.

Fifteen!

Of course, everyone's nails and daily activities are different, so results may vary. But when a hardworking woman who's spent two decades searching for a durable nail varnish discovers something that finally meets her expectations, that's a recommendation worth sharing.

A Little Christmas Luxury That Really Delivers

Sometimes the best Christmas presents aren't necessarily the biggest or most expensive.

They're the little luxuries that make everyday life more enjoyable.

And if you're looking for a Christmas gift for someone who loves beautifully painted nails but struggles with varnish that chips almost immediately, Mavala could be well worth considering.

As for my wife?

She's delighted with her discovery.

And when she awards a beauty product 15 out of 10, I think it's safe to say that Mavala has earned its place on the That's Christmas 365 Christmas gift recommendation list!

Merry Christmas! And here's to beautiful nails that can cope with real life!

https://mavala.co.uk

A Very Vegan Christmas: Enjoying Festive Dining Out Without Compromise

Christmas is a time for delicious food, good company and festive celebrations.

 And whether you're a committed vegan, experimenting with plant-based eating or simply fancy something different, there's absolutely no reason why you shouldn't enjoy a wonderful Christmas meal out.

Not so many years ago, being vegan at a Christmas restaurant gathering often meant being offered a sad looking salad, a rather uninspiring plate of vegetables, perhaps accompanied by a baked potato.

Thankfully, times have changed!

Restaurants, pubs, hotels and cafés across Britain are increasingly recognising that vegan diners deserve the same exciting, imaginative Christmas menus as everyone else.

A Christmas Feast Without the Meat

Forget the idea that Christmas dinner must revolve around turkey, beef or goose.

Today's vegan Christmas menus can feature delicious centrepieces such as mushroom and chestnut Wellington, butternut squash and lentil roasts, festive vegetable pies and beautifully presented nut roasts.

Accompaniments might include rosemary-roasted potatoes, maple-glazed parsnips, braised red cabbage, Brussels sprouts with chestnuts and rich vegan gravy.

And let's not forget dessert!

Vegan Christmas puddings, chocolate tortes, sticky toffee puddings and dairy-free cheesecakes can provide a wonderfully indulgent conclusion to your festive feast.

Book Early and Check the Menu

One of our most important pieces of advice at That's Christmas 365 is to book your Christmas dining arrangements as early as possible.

This is particularly important if you require vegan options.

Although many establishments now offer plant-based Christmas menus, the choice can vary considerably.

Before booking, check whether the restaurant provides a complete vegan festive menu rather than simply one alternative main course.

Remember to ask about starters, desserts, sauces and accompaniments, too. 

Some seemingly innocent dishes contain butter, cream, cheese, honey or other animal-derived ingredients.

And if you're booking a Christmas meal for a large group, make sure everyone's dietary requirements are communicated clearly beforehand.

Christmas Drinks Deserve Attention Too

Did you know that not every wine or beer is vegan?

Some alcoholic drinks are produced using animal-derived fining agents

Fortunately, vegan-friendly wines, beers and spirits are widely available, so there's no need to miss out on a festive toast.

Make Everyone Feel Welcome

Perhaps the most important consideration is ensuring that nobody feels excluded from the Christmas celebrations.

Whether you're organising an office Christmas party, a family gathering or a festive reunion with friends, choosing a restaurant that caters properly for different dietary preferences demonstrates thoughtfulness and consideration.

And here's an idea: why not try a vegan Christmas meal yourself?

You don't have to become vegan to appreciate beautifully prepared plant-based food.

You might even discover a new festive favourite!

At That's Christmas 365, we believe Christmas dining should be about bringing people together, sharing wonderful food and creating happy memories.

And whether your Christmas dinner features turkey, tofu or a magnificent mushroom Wellington, what really matters is enjoying the occasion together.

Here's to a delicious, inclusive and very merry Christmas!

That's Christmas 365. Celebrating everything wonderful about Christmas, every day of the year.

Book Your Christmas Meals Now. Before It's Too Late!

Christmas might still seem a little way off, but if you're planning a festive meal with family, friends or work colleagues, there's one important job you really shouldn't put off any longer: booking your Christmas restaurant or pub meal!

With Christmas Day just two months away, popular restaurants, hotels and pubs are already taking reservations for their festive menus. 

And if you leave booking until the last minute, you could find that your favourite venue is completely full.

Whether you're organising the annual office Christmas party, a family get-together or a relaxing festive lunch with friends, making arrangements now could save considerable disappointment later.

The Best Dates Go First

It's hardly surprising that certain dates are particularly popular.

Friday and Saturday evenings throughout December are especially attractive for company Christmas parties, while Sunday lunchtimes are often favoured by families wanting to celebrate together.

Larger groups can face particular difficulties because restaurants have limited space for big tables.

If you're organising a meal for ten, twenty or even fifty colleagues, waiting until November could mean discovering that your preferred venue simply cannot accommodate everyone.

The earlier you book, the greater your choice of dates, times and venues.

Don't Forget the Family Christmas Meal

Christmas dining isn't just about office parties.

Increasing numbers of families enjoy getting together for a special meal in the weeks leading up to Christmas, particularly when relatives live some distance apart.

A restaurant meal can be an excellent way of bringing several generations together without leaving one unfortunate family member responsible for all the cooking, washing up and clearing away.

Grandparents, parents, children and grandchildren can enjoy spending time together while somebody else takes care of the food.

And let's not forget that Christmas Day itself is an exceptionally popular occasion for dining out.

Restaurants and hotels offering Christmas Day lunches may require reservations months in advance, so anyone hoping to enjoy a traditional turkey dinner without cooking it themselves should investigate availability immediately.

Company Christmas Parties Need Careful Planning

For businesses, the annual Christmas meal is an opportunity to thank employees for their hard work throughout the year.

However, organising a successful celebration involves more than simply reserving a table.

You'll need to consider dietary requirements, accessibility, transport arrangements and whether the chosen venue offers suitable options for everyone attending.

Some establishments require deposits or advance menu selections, particularly for larger parties.

It's also worth checking cancellation policies before committing company funds.

Remember that not everyone drinks alcohol, and providing attractive alcohol-free alternatives is an important part of making celebrations inclusive.

Look Beyond the Traditional Christmas Menu

Although turkey with all the trimmings remains a festive favourite, Christmas dining offers considerably more variety.

Indian, Chinese, Italian and other restaurants can provide wonderful alternatives to traditional British Christmas fare.

Indeed, choosing somewhere different might become the beginning of an enjoyable new family or workplace tradition.

Some pubs and restaurants also offer excellent value festive lunch menus during weekdays, potentially making them more affordable than weekend evening celebrations.

Keep an Eye on Your Budget

Christmas is already an expensive time of year, so it's sensible to establish how much everyone is comfortable spending before making reservations.

Check whether the advertised price includes service charges, drinks and any extras.

A seemingly inexpensive festive menu can become considerably more costly once everything is added together.

Booking early also gives families and colleagues more time to budget for the occasion.

Don't Leave It Until December!

There's something wonderfully enjoyable about sitting down to a delicious Christmas meal surrounded by family, friends or colleagues.

The festive decorations, seasonal music, cheerful conversations and anticipation of Christmas all help create a special atmosphere.

But none of that can happen if you cannot find anywhere with a table available!

So gather your family, consult your colleagues, agree on a suitable date and start contacting your favourite restaurants and pubs.

Because the best Christmas celebrations begin with a little forward planning, and the best tables won't stay available forever!

And remember, here at That's Christmas 365, we believe that Christmas should be about making happy memories, not discovering that every restaurant in town is fully booked!

The Boxing Day Taste Test: Chilli No. 5 Brings Heat to Christmas Leftovers

The turkey's back on the table, the sandwiches are being assembled and someone claims they can handle anything spicy. Enter Chilli No. 5's World Hot Sauce Challenger Gift Set.

Featuring 12 gourmet sauces inspired by Europe, the Americas, Asia and Africa, the £40 gift set turns Christmas leftovers into a tasting challenge, with the heat building as you work your way through the collection.

Dip leftover turkey into a new flavour, give your Boxing Day sandwich a spicy upgrade or gather friends around a tasting plate to compare favourites. From mild and aromatic to intensely fiery, each sauce brings something different to the table.

For food lovers who take an interest in what goes into their food, there's an ingredient story to explore too. Chilli No. 5 crafts its sauces in small batches using fruits, vegetables, herbs, superfoods and chilli peppers. 

Across the wider range, recipes feature ingredients such as guarana, maca, inulin, Korean ginseng and fenugreek, reflecting the founders' interest in both flavour and wellbeing.

The set makes a gift for the enthusiastic home cook, the adventurous foodie or the friend who always orders extra chilli. Bring it out over Christmas for a little friendly competition, then keep discovering ways to use the sauces long after the leftovers have gone.

The World Hot Sauce Challenger Gift Set contains 12 x 25ml sauce tubes and is available from Fortnum & Mason, Selfridges and Chilli No. 5 directly, priced at £40.

Also available this Christmas:

Mini Hot Sauce Gift Set | £20

A stocking filler for food lovers, the Mini Hot Sauce Gift Set brings together five of Chilli No. 5's Great Taste Award-winning sauces in pocket-sized, reusable glass bottles. With five flavours to explore, it's a little introduction to the range, ready to add a finishing touch to festive snacks, sandwiches and suppers.

Contains 5 x 15ml bottles. Available from Selfridges and Chilli No. 5 directly.

Hot Sauce & Spice Advent Calendar | £125

Start the festive taste test early with 24 days of hot sauces, spice rubs, chilli flakes and gourmet drizzles. Chilli No. 5's Hot Sauce & Spice Advent Calendar takes food lovers on a journey through globally inspired flavours, with the heat rising throughout the countdown.

Discover favourites including Chinese Hot & Sour Sauce, Wicked Wasabi Sauce and Heavenly Harissa Sauce, alongside Carolina Reaper Flakes and the limited-edition Pure Ghost, Scorpion & Reaper Sauce. The products featured have collectively been awarded 30 Great Taste stars.

Available from Selfridges, priced at £125.

About Chilli No. 5

Chilli No. 5 was founded by Rumble Romagnoli and classically trained Scottish chef Colin, united by a passion for bold flavour and a lifelong love of food. Their global travels inspired a simple idea: to create hot sauces as exciting and adventurous as the dishes they enhance.

Developed with support from Michelin-starred chefs, the small-batch range combines fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices and chilli peppers, with selected recipes incorporating ingredients such as guarana, maca, inulin, Korean ginseng, fenugreek and L-arginine.

From gourmet hot sauces and spice rubs to tasting challenges and advent calendars, Chilli No. 5 encourages food lovers to discover new flavours and share the experience around the table.

https://chilli-no5.com/

https://www.selfridges.com/GB/en/

Or buy them from The That's Food and Drink online Amazon-powered emporium https://link.amazon/B0ci0GDzO

If you try them please let us know how you got on in the comments!

Crystal Art® Buddies: Christmas Stocking Fillers from £3.99

From Shrek and Wicked to Disney Villains and wonderful wildlife, Craft Buddy's collectable Crystal Art® Buddies offer a little Christmas gift with plenty to enjoy.

Craft Buddy's Crystal Art® Buddies are miniature diamond painting kits that let fans bring their favourite characters to life, one colourful crystal at a time. 

With prices starting at just £3.99, they combine the fun of crafting with the appeal of collecting, making them ideal for Christmas stockings, Secret Santa gifts and little surprises under the tree.

From familiar film favourites to festive and wildlife characters, there's plenty to discover across the collection.

Shrek Crystal Art® Buddies

Everyone's favourite ogre has brought his friends along! Shrek, Donkey, Gingy and Puss in Boots are all part of the collection, ready to be recreated in colourful crystals. A fun little gift for fans of the films, young and old.

Wicked Crystal Art® Buddies

Glinda and Elphaba take centre stage in this magical duo inspired by Wicked. Whether you're a fan of the Good Witch, the Wicked Witch of the West or both, these collectable characters bring a little piece of Oz to the crafting table.

Festive Shrek & Donkey Crystal Art® Buddies

Even the swamp is celebrating Christmas! Shrek and Donkey return in festive designs, bringing a little seasonal humour to the collection. Perfect for fans who like their Christmas characters with a twist.

Festive Wildlife Crystal Art® Buddies

Who says Christmas is just for reindeer? Elephant, Bear, Owl and Giraffe have all dressed for the occasion in this festive wildlife collection. Four cheerful characters for animal lovers to make, display and collect.

Disney Villains Crystal Art® Buddies

The bad guys are having their moment! Disney's most memorable villains feature in this collection, including Maleficent, Ursula, Cruella de Vil, Jafar, Scar, Jack Skellington, the Evil Queen and the Wicked Witch.

A colourful collection for Disney fans who have always had a soft spot for the villains.

Misunderstood Wildlife Crystal Art® Buddies

Spiders, sharks, bats and alligators might not be everyone's favourite animals, but Craft Buddy is giving them a little love!

The Misunderstood Wildlife collection celebrates Spider, Alligator, Shark and Bat, turning these often-feared creatures into colourful collectables.

 Each kit also includes an educational fact card, so there's something to learn along the way.

Make It. Display It. Collect It.

Each Crystal Art® Buddy kit includes everything needed to create a miniature crystal-covered character, from the colourful crystals and applicator tools to the wooden figure and display stand.

Simply follow the numbered design, place the crystals and watch the character come to life. Once complete, the finished Buddy can take pride of place on a shelf, desk or alongside others in the collection.

Suitable for ages six and over, these affordable craft kits offer an activity to enjoy and a keepsake to treasure afterwards.

Prices start from £3.99.

Shop them all here:-

https://www.craftbuddyshop.com/collections/crystal-art-buddies

Is Secret Santa the Answer to Expensive Family Christmases?

Christmas present buying can become surprisingly complicated when families grow.

Parents, children, grandparents, siblings, partners, cousins and friends can create an increasingly long shopping list.

Even modest individual gifts can add up to a substantial amount.

Could Secret Santa provide the answer?

For anyone unfamiliar with the idea, Secret Santa involves participants being randomly assigned another person for whom they buy a present.

Instead of everyone buying gifts for everyone else, each participant purchases just one.

The advantages are obvious.

Costs can be reduced considerably, and participants have more time to choose something thoughtful.

For example, imagine eight adults who would otherwise each buy seven presents costing £15.

That could mean spending £105 per person.

With a Secret Santa arrangement and a £25 spending limit, each participant would spend just £25 instead.

That's a substantial saving.

The system works particularly well when everyone agrees on the rules beforehand.

Set a clear spending limit, establish a deadline and decide whether the identity of the giver should remain secret.

Some families also ask participants to provide a short wish list, reducing the risk of unsuitable presents.

Of course, Secret Santa won't suit every household.

Young children may still expect presents from several relatives, and some people genuinely enjoy choosing individual gifts for family members.

There's no reason why the arrangement can't be adapted.

Perhaps adults could participate in Secret Santa while children continue receiving traditional presents.

Alternatively, families might exchange homemade gifts or experiences instead.

At That's Christmas 365, we think Secret Santa offers a sensible way to reduce financial pressure without losing the pleasure of gift giving.

After all, Christmas should be about generosity and togetherness.

It shouldn't become an expensive competition to see who can buy the most presents.

The Christmas Shopping Mistakes That Could Cost You Money

Christmas shopping can be exciting, but it's also surprisingly easy to make expensive mistakes.

Retailers compete fiercely for our attention during the festive season, and special offers can sometimes encourage us to spend more than we intended.

At That's Christmas 365, we've identified several common pitfalls worth avoiding.

The first is buying without a budget.

A few additional presents here and there might seem harmless, but the costs quickly mount.

Another mistake is assuming that every advertised discount represents a genuine saving.

Before buying, compare prices with other retailers and consider whether you actually need the product.

Delivery charges are another potential trap.

An inexpensive online purchase may become considerably less attractive once postage is included.

Check delivery estimates carefully, too. A bargain isn't much use if it arrives after Christmas.

Be cautious when buying from unfamiliar websites.

Fraudsters frequently exploit the festive shopping season by advertising desirable products at suspiciously low prices.

Research unfamiliar sellers and use secure payment methods.

Returns policies deserve attention as well.

A gift purchased in October might not be suitable when opened in December. Some retailers offer extended Christmas returns, but arrangements vary.

Another common mistake is buying presents simply because they're fashionable.

Popular gadgets and novelty items can be entertaining, but will the recipient still use them in February?

Finally, don't leave everything until the last minute.

Late shopping can reduce your choices and increase the temptation to overspend.

Our advice is to research carefully, compare prices and resist unnecessary pressure.

Christmas shopping should be enjoyable, not a financial obstacle course.

And remember: the best bargain isn't necessarily the product with the biggest discount.

It's something the recipient genuinely wants, purchased at a price you can comfortably afford.