I just had to pop into town to the post office and, lo and behold, they had a Christmas tree behind the counter all lit up, with tinsel and presents.

It's October 19. Over 2 months until Santa visits our house.

I suggested to the clerk that it was perhaps a tad early for festivities but I was informed that they were doing this because of international posting deadlines. Apparently one person complained once when they missed the deadline. OK, fair point with The Royal Mail.

But what about everyone else?

What do Asda, Tesco and everyone else gain by harping on about Christmas in October? We all know that blokes will leave it until Christmas Eve anyway!!