To heck with the calories

ALDI has some scrumptious treats in store. Try its Holly Lane luxury deep filled mince pies -- they're absolutely delicious -- and at 69p for six, why not buy two boxes? Also Aldi's Holly Lane Connoisseur Christmas pud, £2.49, is equally yummy. And, if you've any room, a piece of Aldi's luxury Christmas cake £5.99, will just about see you through 'till tea time.

FOR those of you who've ever visited Bettys Tea Rooms in Yorkshire and often yearn for one of their wonderful cakes, you can now buy them via mail order. Not only do their mince pies (£12 for 12) taste divine, they look absolutely beautiful too. Betty's Continental stollen (£10.50)-- the traditional German Christmas Bread -- is made with Dresdener Stollen spice with a thick layer of marzipan running through. A little lighter is Christmas Italian style with Betty's Chocalate and Orange Panatone, (£11.50). Betty's cakes and pastries are simply first class and now they can be delivered to your own home. Simply call 0845 3453636 for details.

IF Christmas pudding proves a little too heavy for you, Safeway has a couple of delicious alternatives. Dairy cream chocolate roulade £3.99 and Lemonberry Cheesecake £3.99 are both heavenly.

TOO stuffed to eat another crumb on Boxing Day? Why not try a New York Bagel Company bagel with a sliver of smoked salmon and a generous helping of cream cheese? They're tasty and nutritious and available from all leading supermarkets.