The Turkey Crown Affair: A Festive Culinary Caper Worth Solving

*With a playful nod to The Thomas Crown Affair.

Every Christmas has its mysteries. Who ate the last mince pie? Where did the spare Sellotape vanish to? And why is the cat suddenly fascinated by the Christmas tree? 

But this year, a far grander culinary puzzle steals the spotlight—a festive whodunnit worthy of a stylish heist film.

Welcome to The Turkey Crown Affair

As in The Thomas Crown Affair, where charm, strategy and impeccable timing reign supreme, choosing your Christmas turkey is all about making the smart, stylish, and stress-free move. But in this delicious caper, there’s only one question we need to answer:

What’s best for Christmas dinner— a whole turkey or a turkey crown?

Let’s examine the suspects.

Suspect One: The Whole Turkey

A traditionalist’s dream and the undisputed centrepiece of the festive table.

Why It Might Be the Mastermind

Iconic presentation: Nothing quite says Christmas like unveiling a fully roasted turkey, golden and glorious.

More meat overall: Ideal for larger families, or those who enjoy days of leftovers. (Thinking now of my wife's always delicious turkey curry!)

Dark and white meat options: Pleases a crowd, satisfying those who favour legs, thighs or breast.

Potential Motive for Mayhem

Size and oven logistics: A whole turkey can dominate your oven, demanding both space and attention.

Longer cooking time: Not the best accomplice if you're planning a relaxed Christmas morning.

Carving complexity: Requires a steady hand—and occasionally a YouTube refresher.

A whole turkey, then, is the extravagant art heist of Christmas dinner: dramatic, rewarding, but undeniably high commitment.

Suspect Two: The Turkey Crown

Sleek, elegant, efficient. The Pierce Brosnan of the poultry world.

Why It’s the Smooth Operator

Cooks more quickly: A crown is lighter, easier and far less stressful for busy Christmas hosts.

Simpler to carve: Especially helpful if you prefer serving without theatrics.

Breast meat focus: Perfect for diners who favour leaner, whiter meat.

Takes up less space: Leaving room for pigs in blankets, stuffing balls and that extra tray of roast potatoes.

Possible Downside

No dark meat: A dealbreaker for some.

Less leftovers: Unless you size up, the post-Boxing Day sandwich department may feel the loss.

Slightly pricier per kilo: Convenience often carries a premium.

The turkey crown is the smooth art-thief who gets in and out cleanly—no fuss, no feathers, no problem.

So Who Wins The Turkey Crown Affair?

Just like in The Thomas Crown Affair, the answer depends on what you value:

Choose a Whole Turkey if…

You’re serving 6–12 people.

Presentation and tradition matter to you.

You want both dark and white meat.

You enjoy leftovers, soups, curries and Boxing Day feasts.

Choose a Turkey Crown if…

You’re cooking for a smaller group (2–6 people).

You want a quicker, easier cooking experience.

You prefer white meat only.

Your oven space or schedule is limited.

Final Verdict

Both options can deliver a dazzling Christmas dinner, but the true winner of The Turkey Crown Affair is whichever gives you a stress-free, delicious, and perfectly timed festive feast.

Much like the elegant twists of the film itself, the secret lies not in the complexity of the plan, but in its execution.

Whether you unveil a whole bird with Hollywood flair or serve a perfectly cooked crown with effortless sophistication, you’re still the mastermind behind Christmas dinner.

And that’s a plot twist worth celebrating!

Cygnet Gin. From Wales, Ideal for Festive Gifting and Festive Feasting

Cygnet Founder Katherine Jenkins OBE

Cygnet Gin offers a trio of exceptional Welsh gins available with the ease and speed of Amazon delivery. 

Each bottle brings craftsmanship, purity and elegance to the forefront and is perfect for effortless gifting.

At the heart of every Cygnet expression is its botanicals. Each gin is distilled with carefully selected botanicals, ranging from Welsh-sourced ingredients to rare additions such as Manuka Honey.

Whether you’re gifting a seasoned spirits enthusiast or simply looking for a beautiful, impressive present at the eleventh hour, or something special for your Christmas drink table, Cygnet transforms a last-minute purchase into something truly luxurious. The available bottles include:

Cygnet 22 – 70cl (44% ABV) - £54.90 on Amazon

Created for those who appreciate harmony and depth, Cygnet 22 brings together 22 botanicals chosen for finesse and flavour. The addition of Manuka honey lends a soft, velvety texture that elevates the entire profile, making it exceptional neat or over ice. A luxurious gift that feels special from the first sip. https://amzn.to/4oJEcHh

Cygnet 77 – 70cl (44% ABV) - £127.99 on Amazon

The pinnacle of the Cygnet collection, Cygnet 77 begins with the 22 botanical base resting for 55 weeks in Welsh whiskey barrels with added Manuka honey. The result is a rare and powerful spirit with extraordinary maturity and richness. For recipients who already ‘have everything’, this is a show-stopping last minute gift that leaves a last impression. https://amzn.to/4aG1daH

Cygnet Welsh Dry Gin – 70cl (40% ABV) - £39.99 on Amazon

A refined and modern expression of a classic dry gin, Cygnet Welsh Dry Gin is distilled using the purest Welsh water and a blend of 12 of the finest botnicals, creating a truly vibrant gin. The gin features a bright juniper supported by bold citrus and subtle florals. A beautifully balanced, versatile gin that makes an accessible yet elevated gift. https://amzn.to/44VJHeM

https://cygnet-distillery.com

Looking for Quality non-alcoholic wines? Fairtrade non-alcoholic wines are ideal

The month of January is often significant as the time when people abstain from drinking alcohol, to reset their relationship with alcohol and experience long term benefits. 

Co-op is proud to be able to offer two Fairtrade non-alcoholic wines that offer drinkers an alternative that not only tastes good but means better terms of trade for wine producers. 

The world’s largest Fairtrade wine producer, La Riojana, has just launched its first Fairtrade non-alcoholic wine, Tilimuqui Sparkling Zero, which is available to buy at 500 Co-op stores.  

On the palate, wine lovers can expect Tilimuqui to offer fine bubbles, zesty lime and juicy peace aromas, with a balanced sweetness and acidity. It’s the perfect aperitif and ideal for drinking and special occasions. 

La Riojana’s Export Director Walter Carol told That's Christmas: “We believe choosing not to drink alcohol shouldn’t mean compromising on taste or experience. 

"Tilimuqui Zero, in our opinion, makes no such compromise and has been created by us to be enjoyed by wine drinkers and non-wine drinkers alike.” 

 Carol continues, “With the growing demand for mindful drinking and alcohol-free alternatives, Tilimuqui Zero offers great value for money and provides wine lovers with a sophisticated option that compliments modern lifestyles.” 

Edward Robinson, Co-op Buyer, said: “Producing alcohol-free wines which retain the appeal and taste profile of the originals isn't easy, but this sparkling wine from Argentina has managed to do exactly that. 

"Celebrate in style with this elegant, fruit-forward fizz from Argentina, with none of the hangover. And as a Fairtrade product, proceeds from the sale of this wine support the running of a health centre in Argentina, benefitting thousands of people."

Fairtrade Premium is an extra payment on top of the Fairtrade Minimum Price paid to producers; producers decide how to use the payments through a democratically elected committee. 

Producers on Fairtrade wine farms have used their Fairtrade Premium to fund education and childcare initiatives that support children across different ages, from creches and aftercare facilities, to secondary schools, funding school facilities, meals, books, computers and uniforms. 

 La Riojana Co-op’s Tilimuqui Fairtrade Sparkling Zero

Tilimuqui Fairtrade Sparking Zero is a sophisticated 0% alcohol wine that has been made to deliver all the taste, aroma and sense of occasion of wine, without alcohol.  

RRP: £5 

Available from: 500 Co-op stores 

Cognato, South African non-alcoholic wine   

All though not a new wine product, this Cognato Chenin Blanc is a crisp yet fruity wine with hints of pear and freshly cut grass on the nose. It pairs well with seafood dishes, chicken or as a non-alcoholic drink before dinner. 

How to Make the Best Homemade Turkey Gravy for Christmas

A truly memorable Christmas dinner isn’t just about the turkey, the roasties, or even the sprouts with chestnuts. 

The secret star of the feast is the gravy, rich, velvety, savoury, and full of deep festive flavour. 

A good homemade turkey gravy ties the whole plate together, turning a nice meal into a spectacular one.

The best part? Making your own gravy is much easier than people think, and it transforms your Christmas dinner instantly. Here’s how to create a gravy worthy of your festive table.

Start with the Turkey Drippings

The most flavourful gravy always begins with the roasting tin. As your turkey cooks, the fat, juices, and caramelised bits gather in the bottom of the tray. These “drippings” are pure gold.

What to do:

Once your turkey is cooked, carefully pour everything from the roasting tin into a heatproof jug.

Let it settle for a couple of minutes. The fat will rise to the top.

Skim off most of the fat, but leave a tablespoon or two — that’s where the flavour sits.

If your turkey hasn’t released much liquid, don’t worry. A splash of boiling water or low-salt chicken stock in the roasting tin will help lift those gorgeous browned bits.

Make a Simple Roux Base

A roux gives your gravy body and silkiness.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp of turkey fat (or unsalted butter)

2 tbsp plain flour

Method:

Warm the fat or butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste.

Cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden — this removes any raw flour taste.

You’re now ready to build the gravy.

Add the Stock and Drippings

Slowly whisk in:

All the strained turkey juices

Enough hot chicken or turkey stock to reach your desired consistency (usually 500–700ml)

Add the liquid gradually to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until it’s glossy and smooth.

Let it simmer for 5–10 minutes. This is where the flavours deepen and the gravy thickens to perfection.

Optional Flavour Boosters

Not essential, but marvellous:

A splash of white wine – adds brightness and depth

A teaspoon of cranberry sauce – subtle sweetness

A dash of Worcestershire sauce – enhances savoury notes

Fresh herbs – thyme, rosemary, or sage

A knob of butter at the end – makes the gravy extra silky

Taste as you go. Adjust with salt and pepper, though your drippings may already be quite salty.

A Brilliant Tip: Roast Veg for Extra Depth

If you want a restaurant-style gravy:

Place chopped onions, carrots, and celery under the turkey as it roasts.

Once cooked, blend these soft, caramelised veg with a ladle of stock.

Strain into your gravy for an intensely rich flavour.

It’s an old chef’s trick and works beautifully at Christmas.

Keeping Your Gravy Warm Until Serving

Gravy cools quickly at the table. To avoid frantic reheating:

Pour it into a pre-warmed gravy boat

Wrap the base in a tea towel to insulate it

Or keep it in a small slow cooker on low until serving

Your guests will thank you.

Can You Make Christmas Gravy Ahead?

Absolutely — and it’s a lifesaver during the busy run-up to Christmas.

Make a batch of turkey gravy using stock from roasted turkey wings or legs.

Chill or freeze it.

On Christmas Day, simply reheat and enrich it with the fresh turkey drippings.

This gives you a stress-free festive meal.

Great gravy is comfort in a jug, savoury, warming, and deeply nostalgic. Making your own at Christmastime doesn’t just elevate the meal; it adds a touch of homemade magic that shop-bought versions simply can’t match.

Serve it generously over your turkey, roast potatoes, stuffing, Yorkshire puds, and everything else on the festive plate. It is Christmas, after all.

How to Make Delicious Homemade Eggnog for Christmas

There are some Christmas traditions that feel as timeless as fairy lights, mince pies, and watching the tree twinkle on a frosty evening. 

Eggnog is one of them. This luxurious, gently spiced festive drink has been enjoyed for centuries, and making it at home is far easier than many people imagine. 

Rich, velvety, and wonderfully warming, it’s the perfect treat for holiday gatherings, or for sipping quietly while wrapping presents.

Here’s how to create a batch of truly delicious homemade eggnog, tailored for the British kitchen.

Why Make Eggnog at Home?

Shop-bought eggnog is somewhat difficult to find in the UK, and when you do see it, it’s often overly sweet or lacking the silky richness people expect. Making your own allows you to:

Control the sweetness

Choose your spices

Use high-quality British cream and milk

Serve it alcohol-free or spiked

Create a show-stopping festive drink for guests

Plus, it fills your kitchen with a gorgeous aroma of nutmeg and vanilla, instantly Christmassy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Most of these ingredients are already in the average Christmas kitchen:

4 fresh egg yolks

100g caster sugar

500ml whole milk

250ml double cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ tsp ground nutmeg (plus extra to garnish)

Optional: 60ml dark rum, brandy, or bourbon

If you’d prefer to make a fully pasteurised version, you can gently cook the mixture—details below.

How to Make Traditional Eggnog

1. Whisk the yolks

In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until thick, pale, and creamy. This gives the finished eggnog its signature smoothness.

2. Warm the milk

In a saucepan, gently heat the milk, double cream, vanilla, and nutmeg until steaming but not boiling.

3. Temper the eggs

Pour a small amount of the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents curdling. Gradually add the rest until fully combined.

4. (Optional) Cook for pasteurised eggnog

Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and heat gently, stirring continuously, until it thickens slightly and reaches 71°C. Do not boil.

Remove from the heat immediately.

5. Add alcohol (optional)

If you’re making a grown-up version, stir in rum, brandy, or bourbon.

6. Chill

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Eggnog is best served icy cold with a dusting of nutmeg.

Alcohol-Free Eggnog for the Whole Family

Eggnog doesn’t need alcohol to be delicious. Omit the spirits and serve the chilled drink with:

A cinnamon stick

A swirl of lightly whipped cream

A sprinkle of nutmeg or cocoa

It becomes a cosy, custardy festive treat suitable for children and adults alike.

Serving Suggestions

Serve in glass mugs topped with freshly grated nutmeg

Add a splash of coffee for a “Christmas latte” twist

Pour into a festive jug for the Christmas breakfast table

Use leftover eggnog in French toast or bread-and-butter pudding

How Long Does Homemade Eggnog Keep?

If cooked to the safe 71°C and stored in a sealed container in the fridge, eggnog will keep for 2–3 days.

The uncooked version should be consumed within 24 hours.

Make Eggnog Part of Your Christmas Tradition

Homemade eggnog feels like a small luxury in the heart of winter, a creamy hug in a glass. Whether you enjoy it fireside, serve it to friends on Christmas Eve, or use it to add flair to your seasonal bakes, it’s a festive ritual worth bringing into your own home.

Winter Wellness: Foods and Supplements to Keep You Fighting Fit in the Run-Up to Christmas

Everyone needs vitamins!

Stay healthy this festive season with immune-boosting foods and smart supplements. Discover what to eat in the run-up to Christmas to help ward off colds, flu and winter infections.

We promised you that we would share a feature on how to ward off the flu and here it is!

As the Christmas countdown begins, so too does the wave of sniffles, sore throats and seasonal bugs that always seem to arrive just in time for the festivities. 

With busy diaries, colder weather and more time spent indoors, it becomes all too easy for colds and flu to take hold just when you want to enjoy parties, family gatherings and last-minute shopping trips.

The good news? A stronger immune system starts in your kitchen. The foods you eat – and the supplements you choose – can make a real difference to how well your body fights off winter infections.

Here’s how to fortify yourself for a healthy, happy Christmas season.

Eat the Rainbow: Immune-Boosting Foods for December

Citrus fruits

Oranges, satsumas, clementines and grapefruit are bursting with vitamin C, which supports immune cell function and helps reduce the duration of colds. Luckily, these fruits are at their seasonal best around Christmastime, perfect for snacking or adding to breakfast bowls.

Berries

Fresh berries may be pricier in winter, but frozen berries are just as nutritious. Blueberries, blackberries and raspberries provide antioxidants that protect cells against infection-causing inflammation.

Garlic and onions

These humble kitchen staples contain allicin and other sulphur compounds known to have antimicrobial properties. Add them generously to soups, stews, roasts and stir-fries in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

Leafy greens

Spinach, kale, chard and spring greens support your immune system with vitamins A, C and K, plus folate and iron. If you’re planning festive meals, mix greens into omelettes, pasta dishes or Christmas Eve quiches.

Yoghurt and fermented foods

A healthy gut plays a major role in immunity. Yoghurt with live cultures, kimchi, sauerkraut and kefir help support a balanced gut microbiome. Even a breakfast bowl topped with live yoghurt and fruit can make a difference.

Lean protein

Your immune cells are made from protein, so maintaining your intake is vital. Chicken, turkey, eggs, fish and plant-based proteins such as beans and lentils help the body repair and defend itself.

Seasonal Heroes: Warming Foods That Help You Fight Winter Bugs

Ginger

A natural anti-inflammatory, ginger can soothe sore throats, support digestion and provide a warming boost. Fresh ginger tea with honey and lemon is a perfect December tonic.

Turmeric

This bright golden spice contains curcumin, known for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory qualities. Stir turmeric into soups or warm milk for a cosy evening drink.

Honey

Especially raw honey, which contains antimicrobial compounds that ease coughs and irritation. Add a spoon to tea or drizzle over porridge.

Chicken soup

It’s more than an old wives’ tale. Chicken soup provides fluids, electrolytes, protein and minerals that support recovery and may ease inflammation in the airways.

Supplements Worth Considering Before Christmas

While food should always come first, supplements can be helpful when our schedules, stress levels and the cold weather work against us.

Vitamin D

In the UK, sunlight levels from October to March are too low for the body to produce adequate vitamin D. This vitamin plays an essential role in immune response. Many people choose to take 10 mcg (400 IU) per day, as advised by the NHS.

Vitamin C

If your diet dips during busy weeks, a vitamin C supplement may help support normal immune function. Look for a moderate daily dose rather than mega-strength tablets.

Zinc

Zinc contributes to the normal function of the immune system and may shorten the duration of colds when taken at the first signs of symptoms. Lozenges or standard supplements are both suitable options.

Probiotics

A balanced gut microbiome supports immunity, and probiotics can help maintain this – especially if you’ve recently taken antibiotics or have a sensitive digestive system.

Elderberry extract

Often used in winter because of its antioxidant content, elderberry is popular for supporting wellbeing during cold season.

Lifestyle Habits That Make All the Difference

It’s not just about what you take – it’s also about daily habits:

Stay hydrated to keep mucous membranes functioning properly.

Wash hands regularly, especially during Christmas shopping trips.

Get enough sleep, ideally 7–9 hours a night.

Keep moving, as exercise supports immunity and reduces stress.

Reduce sugar where possible, as excess sugar may weaken immune responses.

Give Yourself the Gift of Health This Christmas

The run-up to Christmas is one of the busiest, most joyful, and most germ-filled, times of the year. By filling your meals with colourful, nourishing foods and topping up with the right supplements, you’ll give your immune system the support it needs to help you enjoy every festive moment.

Bring Colour and Wow to Your Christmas Breakfasts

Christmas morning has its own kind of magic. The tree lights are twinkling, the presents are waiting, and the aroma from the kitchen can set the tone for the whole day.

While many people focus on the main event, the Christmas dinner, the first meal of the day is a brilliant opportunity to add a burst of colour, creativity, and festive joy.

Here’s why it’s worth giving your Christmas breakfast a glow-up, plus easy ways to add wow-factor without adding stress.

Why Add Colour to Your Christmas Breakfast?

1. It lifts everyone’s mood

A bright, beautiful breakfast table instantly feels more celebratory. Seasonal fruits, vibrant pastries, and colourful drinks feel indulgent and joyful, perfect for the excitement of the day.

2. It makes family photos pop

If you love sharing snaps of your Christmas at home, a colourful breakfast spread looks wonderfully photogenic. Whether it’s ruby-red berries or a golden pastry wreath, this is your chance to create a picture-perfect start to the day.

3. It encourages slower, more mindful eating

Christmas morning can be a whirlwind. A beautifully laid table encourages everyone to pause, enjoy the moment, and savour something delicious before the chaos of wrapping paper begins.

4. It’s an easy win for hosting

If you’ve got overnight guests, a thoughtful breakfast spread adds a touch of luxury, without the workload of a full Christmas dinner.

How to Add Colour and Wow to Your Christmas Breakfast

1. Use naturally colourful ingredients

Mixed berries for a bold burst of red, purple, and blue

Tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, pineapple, and pomegranate

Festive citrus such as blood oranges or clementines

Herbs like mint for a fresh green accent

A simple Greek yoghurt bowl becomes instantly Christmassy when topped with a handful of jewel-bright fruit.

2. Bake (or buy!) something beautiful

You don’t need to spend hours baking. A few well-chosen items add instant wow:

A cinnamon swirl loaf dusted with icing sugar

A cranberry and orange muffin selection

A pastry wreath filled with chocolate or almond paste

Panettone French toast, golden, aromatic, and stunning

Warm pastries on a festive plate look like little works of art.

3. Add colour with drinks

A vibrant drink can transform the entire table. Try:

Cranberry mimosas (with alcohol-free options available)

Spiced apple juice gently warmed

Freshly squeezed orange juice in pretty glassware

Hot chocolate with candy-cane toppers

Even a simple jug of water can look seasonal with slices of orange and a few cranberries.

4. Dress the table

You don’t need to go overboard. Just a few touches make the breakfast table feel special:

A red or green runner

Mini baubles scattered around the plates

Festive napkins

A little vase of winter foliage

Candles add warmth, but keep them low so you can still see each other!

5. Serve something shareable

A centrepiece dish creates a sense of occasion. Consider:

A rainbow fruit platter arranged in festive shapes

A Shakshuka-style baked egg dish (reds, greens, very Christmassy)

A sharing board with pastries, meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, and jams

It’s relaxed, colourful, and easy to top up throughout the morning.

6. Add a touch of whimsy

Christmas morning is for fun. Think:

Snowflake-shaped pancakes

Toast cut into stars

Sprinkles of icing sugar to create a “snow-dusted” effect

A small chocolate on each plate

Festive food picks or paper toppers for pastries

Little details make the moment sparkle.

Colourful, joyful Christmas breakfasts don’t need to be complicated. With a few bright ingredients, a sprinkle of creativity, and a festive table setting, you can turn an ordinary morning into a magical memory, setting the tone for a wonderful Christmas Day ahead.

Why You Must Sort Out Your Fridge and Freezer Before Christmas

As the festive season draws ever closer, most of us turn our attention to gift lists, decorations, and the all-important Christmas food shop. 

But there’s one job that quietly sits in the background, a task that can make or break your Christmas catering and hosting, and that’s giving your fridge and freezer a proper sort-out, defrost, and deep clean.

It’s not glamorous, but it is essential. Here’s why a pre-Christmas clean-up of your cold storage is one of the smartest seasonal preparations you can make.

1. You’ll Need the Space. Far More Than You Think

Christmas dinner ingredients take up a surprising amount of room: joints of meat, trays of stuffing, fresh vegetables, cream, butter, puddings, cheeses, and soft drinks all compete for shelf space.

A cluttered fridge or a freezer full of mystery containers is guaranteed to cause stress.

A clear-out now means:

Easy organisation during the festive rush

No risk of overfilling and poor air circulation

Room for leftovers on Boxing Day

2. It’s the Perfect Time to Bin Anything Out of Date

We all have them, condiments we used once, freezer items we swore we’d use, and tubs of “something” we can no longer identify.

Sorting through everything ensures:

No expired items lurking behind the cranberry sauce

No food safety surprises

A clear picture of what you actually need to buy

This alone can save money and prevent food waste.

3. A Defrosted Freezer Works Better and Costs Less to Run

If your freezer has built up a layer of ice, even a thin one, it’s working harder than it should — and using more energy.

Defrosting it now ensures:

Better freezing performance for your Christmas food

Lower electricity usage

Easier storage, without ice reducing capacity

It’s a win for both your festive planning and your energy bills.

4. A Deep Clean Reduces the Risk of Festive Food Mishaps

Cross-contamination risks rise when fridges are overcrowded or not cleaned properly. A deep clean before the Christmas food shop means:

Shelves and drawers free from spills and bacteria

Safe storage for raw meats and ready-to-eat foods

Peace of mind when feeding family and guests

And let’s be honest, opening a fresh, spotless fridge is oddly satisfying.

5. It Makes Your Christmas Cooking Run Smoothly

Knowing exactly what you have (and where it is) saves huge amounts of time during peak cooking periods.

With everything sorted and labelled, you’ll avoid:

Buying duplicates

Forgetting ingredients you already had frozen

Losing tubs of prepared gravy or sauce somewhere in the icy depths

An organised fridge and freezer reduce stress and help you stay on top of your festive meal plan.

6. It Sets You Up for the New Year, Too

A clean fridge and decluttered freezer don’t just make Christmas easier, they give you a great start to January. No leftover chaos. No expired jars. No need to tackle deep cleaning when you’re already exhausted from the festivities.

It’s one of the few seasonal tasks that benefits future you as much as the present.

How to Make the Job Quick and Easy

Use cool bags to store food safely while cleaning

Put warm bowls of water in the freezer to speed up defrosting

Wash shelves in warm soapy water and dry thoroughly

Label containers clearly before putting items back

Create zones for dairy, veg, meats, and leftovers to keep things organised

A bit of effort now means a stress-free kitchen later.

A Clean, Organised Fridge: The Unsung Hero of Christmas

With so much happening at this time of year, it’s easy to overlook these practical tasks. But sorting out your fridge and freezer is one of the most effective ways to ensure your Christmas runs smoothly, from storing the turkey to tucking away the leftover trifle.

Give yourself the gift of space, efficiency, and peace of mind!

Why Every Family Should Get Their Flu Jab Before Christmas

As we slip into the sparkle and bustle of December, most of us are busy planning festive menus, booking travel, wrapping presents, and checking whether we’ve remembered everyone’s stocking fillers. 

But there’s another Christmas essential that often gets overlooked, and it may be the most important gift you can give your family this season: making sure everyone has had their flu jab.

Why it matters now more than ever

Winter is peak flu season in the UK, and with families gathering indoors,  often with relatives of all ages, from excitable toddlers to older grandparents, the chances of catching and spreading flu increase dramatically. 

While flu is sometimes dismissed as “just a heavy cold,” the NHS reminds us that it can cause severe illness, hospitalisation, and in vulnerable groups, it can even be life-threatening.

Some hospitals are already closed to new admissions due to an unexpected and early surge in flu cases and some virologists are recommending that people start wearing face masks, especially whilst on public transport.

A flu-free Christmas is a happier Christmas.

Who is eligible for a free NHS flu jab?

Each year, the NHS offers free flu vaccinations to groups most at risk. This typically includes:

Adults aged 65 and over

Pregnant women

People with certain long-term health conditions

Children aged 2–3 (nasal spray)

School-age children up to Year 11

Carers and frontline health or social care workers

If you’re not eligible, you can still get vaccinated privately at pharmacies such as Boots, Superdrug, Lloyds, and many independent chemists. Private jabs are reasonably priced and widely available.

Why the whole family should get protected

Even if you’re healthy, flu can knock you off your feet for days, sometimes weeks, and nobody wants to miss out on Christmas dinner, carol services or Boxing Day walks because they’re tucked up in bed with tissues and paracetamol.

But there’s another crucial reason: protection for others. Children and working adults often spread flu without realising they’re infectious. By getting vaccinated, you’re helping shield vulnerable relatives who might be more severely affected.

Think of it as a family act of kindness, and one that keeps the celebrations moving smoothly.

How to get your flu jab sorted quickly

Booking your flu vaccination is simple and can usually be done online:

NHS GP surgeries often invite eligible patients directly or allow online booking.

Pharmacies provide quick walk-in or pre-booked appointments.

Schools handle vaccinations for most children automatically.

If you’re planning Christmas travel, book your jab sooner rather than later. It takes around two weeks for immunity to develop.

Make it part of your Christmas preparations

Treat flu jabs like you would ordering the turkey or checking the fairy lights: a practical step that ensures your festive season runs smoothly.

Why not turn it into a family health check-in? Tick off flu jabs, review repeat prescriptions, and make sure everyone’s well stocked with any medications they’ll need over the Christmas and New Year period. It’s amazing how much stress this removes from the holidays.

A healthier, happier Christmas for all

Flu jabs aren’t the most glamorous part of Christmas planning, but they might just be the most meaningful. By protecting yourself and encouraging your family to do the same, you’re giving the gift of good health,  and creating the best possible chance for a relaxed, joyful, sniffle-free Christmas.

Later on we'll carry a feature on simple steps you can take to help your body ward off the flu.

A Perfect Winter Read: No Lips to Scream With — A Chilling Christmas Kindle Treat

As the nights draw in and the world outside grows quieter beneath December’s long shadows, many of us turn to stories that make the season feel even more magical. 

Some choose warm-hearted tales filled with twinkling lights and cosy romance.

Others? They lean into the darker side of winter, the mysteries, the tingles up the spine, and the thrill of a story best enjoyed with the curtains drawn and a hot drink close by.

If you fall into the latter group, then this Christmas there’s one Kindle read you’ll want on your device: No Lips to Scream With, written by me and available exclusively on Amazon Kindle:

https://amzn.to/3MnK5MR

This atmospheric novella is the perfect companion for those quiet hours after the festive rush, when the house is still and the wind outside seems to whisper around the eaves.

Haunting Tales for a Winter’s Night

Set against backdrops that feel cold, remote, and eerily timeless, No Lips to Scream With draws the reader into a world where isolation sharpens fear and silence becomes its own character. 

It’s the sort of story collection  that rewards reading in a single sitting, ideally by the glow of your Christmas tree lights, where the contrast between warmth and dread heightens every moment.

Without giving away any twists, readers can expect:

Gripping and unsettling narratives that build steadily

Characters who feel vividly human despite their haunting circumstances

An atmosphere thick enough to wrap around you like a December fog

A closing act that lingers long after the Kindle is switched off

If you're someone who loves a chilling tale to punctuate the festive season, something to cleanse the palate between mince pies and Christmas films, this is an ideal pick.

Why It Belongs on Your Christmas Reading List

Christmas is, surprisingly, one of the best times for a good scare. For centuries, Britons have shared ghost stories at Christmastime — a tradition stretching back long before Dickens gave us A Christmas Carol. No Lips to Scream With fits beautifully into that lineage.

It’s modern. It’s clever. It’s unsettling in all the right ways.

It crosses several genres, horror science fiction, mystery and thrillers.

And because it’s a Kindle-exclusive title, you can download it instantly — perfect for:

Christmas Eve reading

A stocking stuffer for Kindle-loving friends

A Boxing Day escape while everyone else argues over leftover turkey

Holiday travel, when a dark tale is just the thing to pass the time

Treat Yourself to a Different Kind of Christmas Story collection

Whether you’re a lifelong horror reader or simply someone who loves a seasonal thrill, No Lips to Scream With delivers atmosphere, tension, and originality in abundance.

Click here to download your Christmas read today:

👉 https://amzn.to/3MnK5MR

Make yourself a mug of something warm, settle into your favourite chair, and enjoy a chilling journey into the darker side of winter storytelling.

It's 99p, or free with Kindle Unlimited.