IT seems the spirit of Christmas has been well and truly deserted as people rush to get rid of their unwanted gifts. Every year many millions of pounds are spent on unwanted gifts – an average of £36 per person this year. You may not love that woolly jump

IT seems the spirit of Christmas has been well and truly deserted as people rush to get rid of their unwanted gifts.

Every year many millions of pounds are spent on unwanted gifts - an average of £36 per person this year.

You may not love that woolly jumper from your Gran or that curious ornament from your mother-in-law, but those people you received gifts from this year thought enough about you to take the time and trouble to buy something they thought you'd like.

Spare a thought for those who received nothing this year because they have no one who cares enough about them.

It shouldn't matter how cheap or hideous a gift is - it's a cliché, but it really is the thought that counts.

I think it's a great idea for people to make gifts for the adults they would usually buy presents for. Not only will it be kind on your wallet as we weather the current economic storm, but it will take a deal of thought and effort to produce.

I'm definitely going to do this next year, and the recipients of my handmade gifts wouldn't dare to return them unwanted.