Christmas will always be expensive so let us know your top tips for saving money over the festive season without turning into Mr or Mrs Scrooge! I'm a big fan of spreading the cost over two or three pay packets. How about you?

Plus check out our great Christmas cost-cutting tips

I've always stuck with the good old
"If I can't afford it , I don't buy it" maxim.

Personal resposibilty plays a major factor here.

I have no sympathy for those who go on about they're kids missing out, disappointment is a lesson very few youngsters learn early enough.

If you can't afford it, tell them so. After a few minutes of huffing and puffing they'll get over it, trust me.