Its the most wonderful time of the year.

I thought that advertising new Glade Christmas plug ins for this 'festive season' in September was bad enough, but no sooner had the middle of October passed and suddenly we have forgone the beautiful season of 'Autumn' (AKA 'the run up to Christmas') and dived headlong into panic buying and choosing baubles.

Now without wanting to sound like a Scrooge, as I love Christmas as much as the next person, but don't you think it dilutes the 'magic' somewhat by starting the onslaught a good 3 months before the event.

And its not just the inside of shops, the Arndale was fully Christmassed up yesterday, to my disbelief, complete with a grotto (minus Father Christmas - who is in my opinion the only person forgiven for trying to be organised months ahead). The Trafford Centre had more lights on it than Gatwick, also complete with prancing metallic reindeer leaping out from the surrounding roundabouts.

But what about poor Hallowe'en and Bonfire Night, I used to be so excited about them, but they seem to be eclipsed by the monster that is 'The run up to Christmas' these days.

So come on Tea Fans - think of the pumpkins, lonely this Autumn, bypassed for some tinsel and unloved for the sake of a bauble.

Keep Christmas in December!