Christmas draws ever closer, and as the recession continues to bite, this seems like a good opportunity to ask our readers to do their bit and share a bit of festive cheer.

For many of us the high cost of food will no doubt be causing some concern. How do we provide the family and guests with the meals they crave on a reduced budget?

There must be many of you out there who have some helpful tips to share with us. So come on all you chefs, both professional and amateur, we'd all love to read your Christmas recipes and other cost cutting ideas!