Time for memory making and creating family traditions

One of the key ingredients which conjures up the magic of Christmas is the wealth of family traditions revisited each year.

- with Mike Hill

Everyone has their own rituals to look back upon fondly and look forward to excitedly as the Big Day looms large.

Spending the holiday with my wife's family for the first time opened a new world of Christmas customs from the life of a Blackpool hotel at this most wonderful time of year.

Before retirement came calling, the in-laws played host to a full house of guests over the festive period.

Apart from the odd old timer or two who had checked out over the previous 12 months it would be the same cast of familiar faces checking in each year for Christmas at the seaside.