2 h. ago UK households bin 168m Christmas lights and ‘fast tech’ items a year

Consumers spent £1.7bn on festive lighting last year and much of it is treated as disposableUK households have thrown away an estimated 168m light-up Christmas items and other “fast-tech” gifts over the past year, a study suggests.The research by the non-profit group Material Focus found about £1.7bn was spent last year on Christmas lighting, including 39m sets of fairy lights. Continue reading...

Politics

4 h. ago Festive treats: Adriann Ramirez’s recipes for pumpkin loaf and gingerbread cookies

Two easy bakes to share or gift: soft and peppery gingerbread cookies and a ginger and pumpkin loaf with spiced lemon icingAs a self-proclaimed America’s sweetheart (Julia Roberts isn’t using that title any more, is she?) who moved to the UK nearly 10 years ago, there are a few British traditions and customs that I have adopted, especially around Christmas time. However, there are also a few American ones that I hold on to staunchly: one is the pronunciation of “aluminum”, and another is the importance and beauty of a soft cookie. In both of these easy but delicious bakes to share, I use spice and heat to balance the usual sweetness with which the season can often overload us. Continue reading...

Society

17 h. ago The Hotel Chocolat festive fizz hamper is the perfect treat for yourself this Christmas

I just found the perfect treat to enjoy whilst watching your favourite Christmas movie.

Politics

65 h. ago The eight festive bottles that will go down a treat this Christmas – including a show

EVERYONE likes a little tipple at Christmas. Drinks expert Carmen O’Neal, aka Cocktail Carmen, reveals eight festive bottles which will go down a treat with their recipients. Ukiyo Japanese Blossom Gin, 700ml, £32 Fusing cherry blossom, yuzu citrus and traditional Japanese botanicals, this is light, floral and refreshing – just perfect for someone stylsih who...

Politics

2 d. ago Lucy Letby 'treated to opera classes plus festive chocolates and mince pies behind bars'

Convicted killers including Lucy Letby will have a 'cushy' Christmas at HMP Bronzefield with festive treats, an insider claims

Politics

3 d. ago Christmas market voted UK's best for food and drink had one treat that got me feeling festive

Newcastle's Christmas Market was named one of the UK's best for food and drink, and one treat in particular is an absolute must-have for the festive season

Politics

3 d. ago Convicted child killers including Lucy Letby and Constance Marten 'will be treated to cushy Christmas opera classes plus festive chocolates and mince pies behind bars'

Despite committing some of the country's most appalling crimes, inmates at HMP Bronzefield in Surrey will take part in a singing workshop where mince pies and chocolate are also on the menu.

Events

3 d. ago M&S shoppers get 'delicious' £20 festive afternoon tea for £5 in limited deal

The festive treat box is 75% cheaper than its usual price and packed with enough goodies to share

Economics

4 d. ago The most stylish knitwear for Christmas Jumper Day, according to a royal expert

With Christmas Jumper Day just a week away, there's still time to treat yourself to the perfect festive knit.

Politics

5 d. ago Call the Midwife confirms legend's return and they are sporting a new look

Call the Midwife fans are set to be treated to two festive specials this Christmas, and the BBC drama has confirmed the return of a much-loved character

Politics

6 d. ago 'I'm pet food specialist and there's some Christmas foods dogs should never eat'

Christmas is just weeks away, with many people enjoying tucking into sweet treats and snacks but there's a number of festive foods which could be dangerous for pets to eat

Politics

7 d. ago Man vs Baby Netflix release date, cast and episodes unveiled for festive treat

Rowan Atkinson returns as Trevor Bingley in the festive follow-up to Man vs Bee

Politics

7 d. ago Reading and Leeds 2026 announce six huge headliners in huge switch up

Reading and Leeds Festival fans are being treated to a history-making 2026 event as organisers announce the first headliners ahead of next year

Politics

8 d. ago Greggs unveils range of Christmas cards — and they come with a hidden festive treat

GREGGS is launching its first range of Christmas cards — which come with a free sausage roll. Called the Ultimate Secret Santa Surprise, the £3.95 cards feature heat-activated ink. When warmed, a code is revealed to redeem for a sausage roll, including the vegan variety. There is also the option to personalise designs, such as...

Politics

8 d. ago Mary Berry joined by string of famous faces as she spills festive food secrets this Christmas

Mary, who turned 90 this year, will teach her three star guests (and the rest of us) how to make some of her festive culinary treats ahead of the big day

Society

1 week ago 'I tried the Christmas menu at Morrisons café and had one regret'

Morrisons Cafe has a festive selection of sandwiches and sweet treats on offer this Christmas, so we went to try it

Politics

1 week ago Begging Dogs: Dog training expert shares top tips to stop your dog mooching at the Christmas dinner table

These tips should hopefully stop pups being a nuisance while you’re tucking into festive treats this Christmas.

Politics

1 week ago I tested 20 Christmas sandwiches from Tesco, Sainsbury's, M&S, Morrisons and more

My Christmas feast included a beef wellington sarnie, some festive duck and a ‘double dunk' turkey treat

Politics

1 week ago Christmas gift appeal by East Kilbride charity Loaves and Fishes

The good cause is seeking donations of toys and treats to support more than 1400 people this festive season

Politics

2 w. ago Scots issued warning over favourite festive drink amid Christmas countdown

Experts say that you could be doing serious harm to your body if your indulge in this festive treat.

Events