This time last year on my blog I mentioned pink fluffy towels and was given them fivefold. I also got the paella and the casseroles.

This year I shall mention the £200,000 I really need in the hope (but not expectation) of the same result.

More realistically, maybe this will be the year that nobody gives me scented candles, soft-centred milk chocolates or sweet, fizzy wine - all of which I loathe, and have to redistribute among my nephews and niece.