Yes, it’s the most wonderful time of the year – but it can also be the most stressful if you’re hosting. In the countdown to Christmas, former Good Housekeeping editor Gaby Huddart shares tips and tricks to get your home fit for the festivities

Start right now! It’s the best way to keep calm, make informed choices, allow a little flexibility and spread the cost. You’ll be able to reap the rewards of being super-organised nearer the time. Set

Countdown to Christmas! Try these tricks to get you party-ready

Our round-up of the funny, fascinating and unusual stories this fortnight

Betty Middleton had only moved in two weeks earlier, but already she was starting to annoy me with her frequent knocks at my back door. “Would you like a slice of my lemon drizzle? It’s home-made!” No

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