Are you one of those people who contemplate the prospect of Christmas drawing nearer with a huge smile or a large groan?

It seems nowadays that the shops start selling Easter eggs in January and Christmas goods by late August. In these times of increasing money shortages, many households are struggling to pay their bills let alone fund the cash for presents and festive food.

I asked Ms.S. Austin, whilst out shopping, if she felt that the true meaning of Christmas had been altered. She said "Yes, nowadays there seems to be a lot of pressure to spend more on gifts that no-one really needs. The religious aspect seems to have been side-lined. I then asked her what changes she would like to see and she replied that she would prefer to see a little less money spent in the shops and a little more money spent in the shops and a little more being directed to good causes.

"In these difficult times it would make such a huge difference to struggling charities if everyone spent a couple of pounds less on gifts and donated a small amount to help cheer up those less fortunate than themselves. It would also make the donor feel happier too!"

Surely that is what the real spirit of Christmas is all about, as Charles Dickens showed with his character 'Scrooge'; thinking of those more needy than us and giving help even in some small way, brings happiness that can't be counted in terms of money.

With this in mind, I will be thinking twice about some of the unnecessary purchases I might make this year and more about helping a deserving cause!