Opinion: It’s Time to Turn Off the Christmas Lights and Fund Healthcare Instead

Every year, councils across the UK spend tens of millions of pounds on Christmas lights, money that pays for giant snowflakes strung over high streets, glowing reindeer on lampposts, and switch-on ceremonies with confetti cannons and celebrity guests.

It’s charming, nostalgic and, for many, a beloved part of the season.

But there’s an uncomfortable question we ought to ask:

When the NHS is struggling to cope, when social care is collapsing, and when councils are cutting essential services, is spending public money on festive lights morally defensible?

Increasingly, the answer feels like no.

The Price of Sparkle

Most people have no idea how much public money goes into making high streets look Christmassy. Even modest displays involve hiring lighting rigs, paying contractors to put them up and take them down, maintaining electrical infrastructure, and covering energy costs.

When you add it all up nationally, it reaches into the tens of millions annually.

That is money that could fund hundreds of nurses.

Money that could expand GP capacity.

Money that could keep a local care home open, or fund mental health services that desperately need support.

And yet we pour it, every year, into lights that shine for six weeks.

Meanwhile, in the NHS…

At the same time as high streets gleam in December, hospital corridors echo with a different kind of reality:

Patients waiting 12 hours or more in A&E.

People stuck on surgical waiting lists without a date in sight.

GP practices turning away new patients because they are beyond capacity.

Social workers drowning under impossible caseloads.

These aren’t abstract problems — they’re everyday stories for millions.

So when councils proudly announce a £50,000 switch-on event, or reveal a brand-new £70,000 set of LED motifs, it begins to feel like a surreal misalignment of priorities.

We can’t afford enough district nurses, but we can afford giant illuminated baubles?

It’s hard to argue that isn’t fundamentally wrong.

“But Christmas Lights Are Good for Community Spirit!”

This is the argument most often made in defence of festive displays, and it’s not without truth. Christmas lights undeniably lift spirits and encourage people to visit town centres. They soften the darkness of winter and help maintain a sense of tradition.

But here’s the uncomfortable counterpoint:

Cheer is lovely, but care is essential.

You cannot treat loneliness with fairy lights

or untreated cancer with a glowing snowflake.

If “community spirit” matters, then so should the wellbeing of the people who live in those communities. And right now, the NHS and social services are warning, loudly, that they cannot meet demand.

The choice isn’t between joy and misery.

It’s between pretty streets and proper healthcare.

The Harsh Truth: Christmas Lights Don’t Save Lives

This is the sentence many people don’t want to hear.

But it’s the heart of the argument.

Christmas lights make towns look beautiful, but they don’t shorten A&E waits.

They don’t hire midwives.

They don’t pay for carers.

They don’t keep a struggling GP surgery open.

And when public resources are stretched to breaking point, it becomes absurd, even irresponsible, to defend large seasonal spending on decorative lights while essential services crumble.

We treat Christmas lights as if they are non-negotiable.

They aren’t.

Healthcare is.

A Radical Proposal: Turn Them Off

Imagine a national decision, controversial, shocking, headline-making, to suspend publicly funded Christmas lights for just one year. All the money saved would be ring-fenced for healthcare, mental health support, or frontline social care.

It would make a powerful statement:

“Until public services are properly funded, we cannot justify spending public money on luxuries.”

Would it be unpopular? Absolutely.

Would it be brave? Yes.

Would it make a difference? Undoubtedly.

And it would force the country to confront a truth we keep skirting around: our priorities have drifted so far out of alignment that decorative lighting is funded while vital services strain at the edges.

The Real Controversy: We Already Accept This

Perhaps the most shocking part is not the suggestion that Christmas lights should go — but that we’ve allowed a situation where healthcare is so fragile that such a choice even makes sense.

That’s the real scandal.

And unless something changes, it won’t be the last time we’re asked to choose between sparkle and survival.

Ten Outrageous Things Councils Spent Money On, instead of helping the NHS:-

Brace yourself. These examples are inspired by real patterns of council spending across the UK — the kinds of eyebrow-raising “priorities” that make taxpayers wonder whether someone has finally lost the plot.

1. Giant Light-Up Reindeer That Cost More Than a Nurse’s Salary

Nothing says “we’re broke” like buying a 15-foot glowing reindeer for the town square. If only A&E queues were as bright.

2. A “Festive Light Tunnel” That Needed a Separate Generator

Yes, really. A glittery tunnel of LEDs… powered by its own generator… during an energy crisis. Absolutely genius budgeting.

3. A Switch-On Ceremony Featuring a Celebrity No One Recognised

Thousands spent so a barely-remembered reality TV contestant could press a button and wave awkwardly at 200 people.

4. Specially Imported Animated Snowmen for a Town That Rarely Gets Snow

Because nothing says fiscal responsibility like shipped-in snowmen with moving eyebrows.

5. Lighting Repairs for Decorations Older Than Half the Residents

Some councils spend a fortune repairing lights that have been put up every year since the 1980s. At what point do we let them retire with dignity?

6. A Christmas Tree So Big the Council Had to Rebuild the Pavement

A giant tree… that needed structural work… that cost more than a year of therapy sessions for vulnerable families.

7. “Digital Santa Experience” Booths No One Used

Think VR Santa in a booth that looked like a portable loo. And yes, taxpayers funded it.

8. A Festive Illuminated Arch That Failed Safety Checks – Twice

Money well spent: an arch so unstable it was taken down, put back up, taken down again… and then quietly scrapped.

9. A New Storage Facility JUST for Christmas Decorations

Because apparently the answer to financial pressure wasn’t “stop buying decorations” but “build them a house.”

10. A £20k Firework Display for a Five-Minute Countdown

Five minutes of bangs and sparkles. The cost? Enough to fund a small team of community mental health workers for a fortnight.

You or Your Child Might be Sitting on a Forgotten Money Pot, this Christmas. That's Christmas 365 Shows How to Track Down Forgotten Child Trust Fund Money

Discover how to track down forgotten Child Trust Fund savings, use the official GOV.UK tracing tool, and help young adults reclaim money that could be worth thousands.

For families across the UK, thousands of pounds may be waiting to be claimed. And here’s how to find it.

Child Trust Funds (CTFs) were introduced in 2005 as a way to give every child a financial head start when they turned 18. The government provided vouchers to open accounts, and parents could top them up over the years. 

But many accounts were set up automatically because parents didn’t choose a provider, and now, millions of young adults and families have lost track of where those accounts are.

If you’re a parent trying to help your teenager locate their fund, or you’re an eighteen-plus young adult looking to claim your money, the good news is that it’s usually simple to track down.

What Is a Child Trust Fund?

CTFs were available to children born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011. Each eligible child received:

A government voucher worth £250–£500 (depending on income and the year)

A tax-free savings or investment account that matures at age 18

The option for family and friends to make additional contributions

Over six million accounts were opened, many automatically by HMRC, so it’s no surprise that some families don’t know where the fund ended up, or even that it existed in the first place.

Why So Many Accounts Are “Missing”

There are several reasons these accounts become misplaced:

Parents moved home and didn’t update their address

The account was opened automatically by HMRC

Paperwork was lost over time

Children turned 18 without realising money was waiting for them

It’s estimated that in excess of a staggering £1 billion is still sitting unclaimed.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Find a Lost Child Trust Fund

1. Check Any Old Paperwork

If you still have the original voucher or account documents, they will state the provider. Contacting them directly is the quickest route.

2. Use the Official HMRC CTF Tracing Service

If you don’t know which provider holds the money, HMRC can tell you.

You’ll need:

A Government Gateway account

Your National Insurance number (or your child’s if you’re the parent)

Your date of birth

HMRC will then tell you which bank, building society or investment provider holds the account.

Parents can use the service for children under 18. Young adults aged 18+ must contact HMRC themselves.

3. Contact the Provider Once You Know Who Holds the Account

When HMRC confirms the provider, you can request:

The balance

How to access the money

Whether the account is in shares or cash

Instructions for transferring or withdrawing

If you’ve just turned 18, you’ll be asked for identification to release funds.

4. If the Child Has Lost Their National Insurance Number

This is common at 16–18. You can:

Find it on payslips, student loan documents, or benefit letters

Request a reminder through GOV.UK

Without a National Insurance number, HMRC won’t reveal details.

What Happens to the Money at 18?

Once the account matures, the money transfers into an adult ISA unless the young person withdraws or reinvests it. The funds do not disappear, and they continue earning interest.

How Much Could Be Waiting?

Balances vary widely, depending on contributions and investment performance. Many funds are worth between £500 and £2,000, but some are significantly higher, especially if family members topped them up or the account was investment-based.

Useful Tips for a Smooth Claim

Encourage your teenager to set up a Government Gateway account early.

Keep ID documents handy (passport, driving licence or birth certificate).

Check for multiple accounts. Some children have two if their parents opened an initial one and HMRC opened another.

Beware of unofficial tracing services. The HMRC tool is free and the only official method.

https://www.gov.uk/child-trust-funds/find-a-child-trust-fund

These two subsequent sites will also be of assistance:- 

https://findctf.sharefound.org

https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/blog/young-people/how-to-find-lost-child-trust-funds?

For families across the UK, unclaimed Child Trust Funds could offer a welcome boost—whether it’s for university, driving lessons, a first rental deposit, or savings. Tracking down the account is straightforward, and most people recover their details within a couple of weeks.

If you or your child were born during the CTF years, it’s absolutely worth checking. A little detective work today could uncover a long-forgotten financial gift waiting to be used.

Key Figures (2024–2025)

As of 5 April 2025, there were about 758,000 matured CTF accounts that remain unclaimed by their owners (usually people aged 18–23). 

The average value of these unclaimed funds is roughly £2,242. 

Combined, the total value of unclaimed (and some yet-to-mature) CTFs is estimated to be around £1.5 billion — though different sources give slightly different totals depending on whether they include unmatured accounts. 

Of those unclaimed, more than 27,000 accounts are believed to have balances exceeding £10,000.

This could make a very welcome Christmas present for 758,000 young people. You really do need to check this situation out. Because, as has been said in a different context "It Could Be You!"

Stretch Your Christmas Budget: Why Home Bargains, B&M Bargains, and Poundland Should Be on Your List

Christmas is a time for giving, but it’s also famously expensive. 

Between gifts, decorations, food, and festive treats, costs can quickly spiral. 

That’s why savvy shoppers are turning to high-street favourites like Home Bargains, B&M Bargains, and Poundland to make their Christmas spending go further—without compromising on quality or festive cheer. 

Here’s why these stores should be on your Christmas shopping list this year.

1. Incredible Value on Gifts

When it comes to presents, everyone loves a bargain. Home Bargains, B&M, and Poundland offer a wide range of gifts at wallet-friendly prices, from toys and games for children to beauty products, homeware, and stocking fillers for adults. You can find items that look and feel premium without the premium price tag—perfect for filling stockings or giving multiple gifts without overspending.

2. Festive Décor That Doesn’t Break the Bank

Decking the halls can be one of the priciest parts of Christmas. Stores like Home Bargains and B&M stock everything from Christmas lights and baubles to trees and tinsel at prices that leave room in your budget for other festive essentials. Poundland also excels in affordable, quirky decorations, perfect for adding a fun, playful touch to your home.

3. Snacks, Treats, and Party Essentials

Christmas is all about food, and these stores are treasure troves for festive snacks and treats. From chocolate selection boxes and biscuits to drinks, party nibbles, and wrapping essentials, you can stock up for Christmas gatherings without feeling guilty about overspending. 

Many of these items are priced so competitively that you can even grab a few extra for last-minute hosting emergencies.

4. One-Stop Convenience

Shopping at multiple high-street shops can be a chore, especially during the busy festive period. Home Bargains, B&M, and Poundland offer a mix of gifts, décor, and food under one roof, saving you time and effort. Their wide product range means you can tick off multiple items on your Christmas list in one visit.

5. Big Brands, Small Prices

Many people assume discount stores only stock generic brands—but that’s not the case. You’ll often find branded products at a fraction of the usual cost. From popular toy brands to cosmetics and gourmet treats, you can secure high-quality gifts without stretching your budget.

6. Stocking Fillers Galore

Stockings are a beloved Christmas tradition, but filling them can be tricky. Luckily, Poundland, B&M, and Home Bargains are stocking filler powerhouses. From fun gadgets and sweets to beauty minis and quirky trinkets, there’s something for everyone—and nothing will cost more than a few pounds.

Final Bargain Hunting Thoughts

This Christmas, don’t underestimate the power of a bargain. Home Bargains, B&M, and Poundland aren’t just for everyday shopping—they’re essential stops for anyone looking to make the most of their festive budget. With quality gifts, decorations, and treats at prices that make your money go further, these stores ensure that Christmas is both joyful and affordable.

So, when making your Christmas shopping list, make sure these high-street favourites are at the top—it’s a savvy move for happy wallets and happy families alike.

Incidentally the genesis of this blogpost was a visit my wife and I made to a branch of Home Bargains and found one branded item £18.00 cheaper than a high street retailer.

Helping Your Customers (and Your Business) Through Tough Times: Why a Christmas Savings Club Makes Sense

As the cost of living continues to rise and economic uncertainty looms, both businesses and their customers are feeling the pressure.

In the face of these challenges, forward-thinking retailers are looking for practical ways to offer real value and build long-term loyalty. 

One such initiative is the Christmas savings club — a modern take on a trusted tradition that can make a significant difference for families planning ahead for the festive season.

But it doesn’t stop there. There are several ways your retail business can support customers while strengthening your own resilience in the market. Here's how.

1. The Christmas Savings Club: A Simple Solution with Big Impact

Christmas savings clubs have been a community staple in the UK for generations. The concept is simple: customers put aside a small amount of money each week or month throughout the year, then redeem it as vouchers, credit, or goods in your store in time for the festive season.

Benefits for customers:

Spreads the cost of Christmas, avoiding last-minute debt. For example, putting £10 a week into your savings club would, over a year, give your customer £520 toward the cost of their Christmas.

Offers peace of mind and a sense of control.

Encourages savings habits in a manageable, low-pressure way.

Benefits for your business:

Builds year-round engagement and customer loyalty.

Increases guaranteed footfall and festive period sales.

Helps with inventory forecasting and cash flow planning.

Tip: Make your club flexible — offer digital tracking, low minimum contributions, and rewards like a bonus for early sign-up or regular saving.

2. Offer Interest-Free Payment Plans

With many households watching every penny, flexible payment terms can be a lifeline. Offering interest-free instalment options on bigger-ticket items or bulk Christmas purchases (like toys, hampers, or electronics) can make your products more accessible without devaluing them.

Tools like Klarna, Clearpay, or your own in-house payment plan can be a practical way to support customers in spreading the cost over time.

3. Introduce a Loyalty or Points Scheme

Give something back to customers for sticking with you. A simple points-based system (e.g., spend £1, earn 1 point) that leads to discounts, vouchers, or even exclusive access to Christmas offers can foster loyalty and repeat visits.

In tough times, every little saving counts — and your customers will appreciate a retailer who recognises and rewards their custom.

4. Host Budget-Friendly Events and Workshops

Use your retail space (or online platforms) to host community-focused events. This could include:

Free festive craft or gift-wrapping workshops.

Christmas cooking on a budget demos.

Toy swaps or charity donation drives.

These low-cost or free events not only drive traffic to your store but also strengthen your role as a supportive part of the community.

5. Create a ‘Value Range’ or Highlight Budget Buys

Not every customer can splurge, especially in current times. Create a dedicated value section in your store or on your website featuring budget-friendly items for Christmas — whether it's gifts, décor, or food.

Clearly labelling multi-buy offers, value bundles, and affordable alternatives will help shoppers feel confident that they can celebrate without overspending.

6. Partner with Local Charities and Food Banks

Show your business’s commitment to the community by partnering with local organisations. Consider donation bins, "pay it forward" schemes, or matching customer donations with a small business contribution.

This kind of involvement builds goodwill and trust — and can make a real difference to those in need.

Running a Christmas savings club and offering thoughtful, community-minded support isn't just the right thing to do — it’s good business. In uncertain times, customers are more likely to stick with retailers who understand their reality and offer solutions that ease financial pressure without sacrificing the joy of the season.

By becoming a partner in your customers’ wellbeing, your retail establishment can build loyalty, generate goodwill, and secure a more stable, community-focused future.

Top Tips for Getting Your Finances Back on Track After Christmas Overspending

The Christmas season is a time for joy, family, and often a bit of indulgence. However, the aftermath of Christmas can sometimes leave our wallets feeling considerably lighter.

If you’re looking to regain control of your finances after a season of excess, here are some practical tips to help you get back on track.

1. Assess the Damage

Start by reviewing your financial situation. Take a look at your bank statements, credit card balances, and any other debts accrued during the festive period. Understanding where you stand is the first step to planning your recovery.

2. Set a Budget

Create a realistic budget for the coming months. List all your essential expenses such as rent, utilities, groceries, and minimum debt repayments. Allocate any remaining funds towards savings or paying down debt. Use budgeting tools or apps to help you stick to your plan.

3. Prioritise Debt Repayment

If you’ve accumulated debt, prioritise paying it off as quickly as possible. Focus on high-interest debts first, such as credit cards. Consider using the snowball or avalanche method to tackle multiple debts effectively.

4. Cut Back on Non-Essential Spending

Identify areas where you can cut back. Whether it’s skipping your daily takeaway coffee or pausing subscription services, small sacrifices can add up quickly and free up funds to address financial priorities.

5. Plan No-Spend Days or Weeks

Commit to no-spend periods where you avoid unnecessary purchases. Use these times to focus on enjoying free activities, cooking at home, and making the most of what you already have.

6. Sell Unused Items

Post-Christmas is a great time to declutter. Sell unwanted gifts or items you no longer use on online marketplaces. The extra cash can go straight towards debt repayment or savings.

7. Make a Savings Plan

Even if you’re focused on paying off debt, it’s important to rebuild your savings. Start small and aim for a realistic goal, such as an emergency fund covering three months of expenses.

8. Review Subscriptions and Contracts

Audit your recurring expenses. Cancel subscriptions you don’t use, and consider renegotiating contracts for utilities, phone plans, or insurance to save money.

9. Meal Plan and Shop Smart

Reduce grocery expenses by planning meals in advance and sticking to a shopping list. Take advantage of discounts and bulk-buying offers for items you regularly use. Consider using foodbanks.

10. Start Preparing for Next Christmas

Avoid the same financial strain next year by starting early. Set up a dedicated Christmas savings fund and contribute to it regularly. Spread out gift purchases throughout the year to avoid a last-minute spending spree.

11. Seek Support if Needed

If you’re struggling to manage your finances, don’t hesitate to seek help. Organisations such as Citizens Advice or StepChange in the UK offer free financial guidance and debt advice.

Final Thoughts

Recovering from Christmas overspending may feel daunting, but with a clear plan and a bit of discipline, you can get back on track. Use this opportunity to develop better financial habits that will serve you well throughout the year. Remember, it’s not about perfection but progress—every small step counts.

Safe and Secure Ways to Send Monetary Gifts Overseas at Christmas

It's good to receive gifts!

Christmas is a time for giving, and many of us enjoy sending monetary gifts to friends and family, especially those who live overseas. 

However, ensuring that your hard-earned money reaches its destination safely can be a concern. 

Here’s a guide to genuinely safe methods of sending monetary gifts internationally, so you can spread festive cheer without worry.

1. International Bank Transfers

Using a bank transfer is one of the most secure methods of sending money overseas. Most banks offer international transfer services, allowing you to send money directly to the recipient's account.

Advantages:

Highly secure, as transactions are managed by regulated financial institutions.

Transfers are often traceable, so you can confirm delivery.

Considerations:

Fees can vary widely, so check the costs upfront.

Exchange rates may not always be favourable; look for banks offering competitive rates.

2. Online Money Transfer Services

Platforms such as Wise (formerly TransferWise), PayPal, and Revolut offer excellent alternatives to traditional banks. These services specialise in quick and efficient international transfers.

Advantages:

Lower fees compared to banks.

Often offer better exchange rates.

Many platforms allow recipients to receive funds directly into their local bank accounts.

Considerations:

Ensure the platform is available in both your country and the recipient's.

Always use reputable services to avoid scams.

3. Gift Cards for International Retailers

If you’re concerned about sending cash, gift cards can be an excellent alternative. Many international retailers, such as Amazon or iTunes, offer digital gift cards that can be emailed directly.

Advantages:

No risk of funds being lost or misused.

Allows recipients to choose a gift they truly want.

Considerations:

Ensure the retailer operates in the recipient's country.

Some gift cards may have expiration dates or restrictions on usage.

4. Mobile Wallets and Payment Apps

In many countries, mobile wallets like Venmo, Cash App, or Paytm are widely used. Sending money through these apps can be quick and straightforward.

Advantages:

Instant transfers in most cases.

User-friendly interfaces make it easy for both sender and recipient.

Considerations:

Both you and the recipient need accounts on the same platform.

Be cautious of transaction limits and any hidden fees.

5. Postal Money Orders

While less common in today’s digital age, postal money orders remain a reliable option in certain regions. You purchase a money order from your local post office, and the recipient cashes it in their country.

Advantages:

Provides a physical, trackable form of currency.

Ideal for recipients without bank accounts.

Considerations:

Delivery times may be slow, particularly during the busy Christmas season.

Check whether money orders are accepted in the recipient's country.

Tips for Sending Money Safely

Verify Details: Double-check account numbers, names, and email addresses before making a transfer.

Be Wary of Scams: Avoid sharing financial information with untrusted sources and always use reputable platforms.

Plan Ahead: International transfers can take time, so send money early to ensure it arrives before Christmas.

Consider Exchange Rates: A little research can save you money; compare rates across banks and services.

Final Thoughts

Sending monetary gifts overseas at Christmas doesn’t have to be stressful. By choosing the right method and taking a few precautions, you can ensure your gift arrives safely and on time. Whether you opt for a bank transfer, an online platform, or a thoughtful gift card, the most important thing is the festive spirit of generosity that your gesture represents.

Happy Christmas gifting! 

Italian bikes - Exquisite not exclusive!

Looks and performance, at an affordable price ...it’s possibDo you always have to compromise your new bikes aesthetics v it’s function, shouldn’t all bikes be as attractive to look at as they are functional to ride - it’s a tough one - Should bikes that look stunning automatically perform at a similar level?

Do you have to accept someone else’s interpretation of a great paint scheme, just because your budget is limited and you want the very best fit and durability? All of these are questions that anyone looking to buy a decent road bike will ask themselves a thousand times.

Grupetto Italia have some very positive answers with a NEW range of bikes that look as good as they ride. Grupetto Italia have launched 3 beautiful new models for 2012 all with head turning custom finishes that wrap around some of the classiest frames you’ll see on the road today. Aimed at the Race and Sportive rider that wants to stand out from the masses, the bikes mix classic Italian styling and design references with the very best components and materials available today.

Two carbon models the Mottarone SL and Mergozzo CL line up alongside the columbus tubed CS Maggiore to offer the sort of bespoke bikes you would think you’d have to pay Saville Row prices for, infact, nothing could be further from the truth. At a time when spending £3,000+ on a race bike can be seen as pretty standard, Grupettos range starts at half that figure (£1,500) for bikes that offer exclusivee looks and exquisite performance, at a non exclusive price point.

Grupetto’s Nat Rizzi says “To get a half decent looking frame usually means paying a fortune or compromising quality for a badly ‘retro styled’ far eastern import. We’ve noticed with the growth in sportives and cycling in general that riders are often unhappy with the ‘image’ of their bikes but because of budget concerns they forgo this for perceived performance values from some of the bigger more obvious brands - how a bike looks and makes its owner feel is often grossly undervalued”

Well now thanks to Grupetto you can have it all - Style and Performance in equal amounts, no compromises, and because Grupetto build there bikes to your exact specification you will get outstanding value that fits your budget bracket.

Working alongside some of Italy’s finest independent frame builders they have produced a sensational range that will simply out perform similar priced bikes on both specification and finish. With a small showroom in Amersham, Bucks. and direct sales via their website www.grupettoitalia.co.uk they offer clients the comfort of knowing that the bike they buy is created for their exact cycling needs, not to shoehorn you onto something mediocre.

Nat continues “What the pro’s call form’ on your bike, is seriously lacking in so many riders we see on the road today. We ensure our customers have the perfect combination of fit and function maximizing their performance at whatever level they ride at or are aiming for. We offer a FREE fitting service either remotely or in person, that utilizes traditional bike measuring and set up methods to achieve the simple task of making sure you look and feel right on the bike” If you get it right you get so much more from your cycling experience, whether racing local criteriums or riding a Gran Fondo or the Etape.”

Italians are masters at getting this balance right, from a pair of Berluti shoes to a Riva speedboat ‘The look” is as important as the performance with the ultimate goal of having the very best you can produce. Grupetto’s artisan frame building team are based in Italy’s cycling heartland near Bergamo and all the frames take their names from legendary cycling landmarks in the area. If you want an iconic bike that will not disappoint in comfort or performance in the colours you’ve always wanted, talk to Grupetto Italia.

For further information call: 01494 432 984 or visit: www.grupettoitalia.co.uk

(EDITOR: Looking for something to spend your Christmas money on? That's Christmas has found the perfect opportunity for you!)

‘Jingle’ all the way with my Travel Cash

Britons who travel abroad or visit overseas websites for their Christmas shopping needs could pocket an accumulative £8.6m as my Travel Cash- the prepaid MasterCard® currency card – gives its customers the gift of cashback.

my Travel Cash recently added a fantastic reward for all customers - 1% unlimited cashback on everything purchased, paid directly to the prepaid card account the following month after it has been used.

Research from Santander shows that the average Briton will spend £359 on Christmas presents, with 4.2 million spending 23% of their budget abroad and a further 4.2 million spending 35% of their Christmas budget on overseas websites – collectively amounting to £8.6m in cashback rewards should they all use a my Travel Cash currency card.

As purchases made in cards’ currency are also free, shopaholics can feel confident when playing Santa for their loved ones this Christmas. The cashback earned is only limited by how much the cardholder spends – no hidden tricks or complicated rules just great value, commission-free rewards, back on the card in time for mid-term break in the sun.

Myles Stephenson, CEO my Travel Cash, comments: “More and more people are heading abroad to European Christmas markets or further afield to New York or L.A. There is also a large percentage of the population who purchase from overseas websites.

“For both types of customers, my Travel Cash not only offers a competitive exchange rate but we go that bit further to ensure our customers are rewarded. We introduced the 1% cashback this summer and it is now a permanent feature on our cards. Additionally, we have also scrapped ATM withdrawal fees on all three of our cards[iv], and to top it off, our customers aren’t charged any commission either.”

my Travel Cash (www.mytravelcash.com) offers three prepaid MasterCard cards in Multi-Currency (Sterling), Euros and US Dollars. The cards work like a pay-as-you-go mobile phone, you load them with money before you travel and top them up when needed, meaning you only spend what you load – great if you need to stick to a budget when abroad.

The Express Delivery option means you can get yours in time for your trip, unlike other prepaid currency card providers that can take between 5-10 working days. Order your prepaid card and take advantage of the competitive exchange rates at www.mytravelcash.com. Then, simply take it with you when you go.

thinkbanking highlights the importance of a budget for Christmas and beyond

Christmas can be a big expense: from the turkey and all the trimmings, decorations and social occasions, to presents for friends and family. However, budgeting bank account provider thinkbanking is urging people to consider the importance of a well-planned budget to make sure they start the New Year in good financial shape.

Research from MoneySupermarket.com recently found that, though 21% of people will use savings to cover the festive spend, and 38% will have enough disposable income to finance costs over the Christmas period, 11% plan to use their credit or store card. As a result of 'paying on plastic', however, many people could still be paying for Christmas much further down the line.

Despite the convenience credit can offer for many people, it's not the cheapest way to cover the cost. A credit card with an APR of about 18% and a £500 balance could take nearly 12 years to pay off in total, if you only make the minimum repayments of 2.5% every month.

Having said that, with so many of us feeling our finances squeezed by falling disposable incomes and rising living costs, some people feel that borrowing is the only option -which makes it important they budget for their monthly repayments along with all their other outgoings.

One way of making Christmas more affordable is by spreading the cost over the year - which takes planning and commitment, but could make a real difference to the overall cost of Christmas. You could begin preparing for Christmas 2012 by taking advantage of the January sales: at the start of a New Year, many shops offer discounts on cards, wrapping paper, decorations and other festive items. Why not buy your presents throughout the year? It could save you money and help you avoid the last-minute rush nearer the time.

However, one of the most practical ways of looking after your finances is to draw up a well-planned budget, so you can set aside some money every month and watch it grow over the year - you may be surprised at how much you could have saved by next December!

A spokesperson for thinkbanking commented: "It's important for consumers to think about how they'll cover the cost of big occasions like Christmas. With many budgets really feeling the pinch at the moment, plenty of people don't have savings they can depend on, but there are still steps they could take to fund the festive season without taking on debt.

"Although some people feel that they have no option but to borrow, drawing up - and sticking to - a successful, well thought-out budget could make all the difference, and help them avoid turning to credit cards, overdrafts and other forms of debt.

"This Christmas may not be very far away, but there's still time to set some money aside, which could go towards presents and other expenses. For example, putting £20 a week into a savings pot between now and Christmas Eve could give you around £120 to spend - which could make a big difference to your overall festive bill.

"Plus, if you begin saving in the New Year, you could stand yourself in good stead for Christmas 2012 - which is certainly a New Year's resolution worth making."

FACTFILE:

thinkbanking provides access to a current bank account that makes it easier to budget, by ring-fencing money needed for regular commitments, including savings. The 'Money Manager' service helps customers to manage their accounts effectively. The account comes with predictive banking which can let customers know if they are running short for their necessary expenses. thinkbanking accounts don't require a credit check and are available to UK residents over the age of 18.

For more information, visit the thinkbanking website at www.thinkbanking.co.uk.