Size matters when you're on a festive tree budget

There's nothing like a real tree at Christmas, with the scent of pine and sense of tradition.

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But too often people looking for a cheaper option will end up with a twiggy specimen whose needles look like they are going to drop before you even get the tree home.

So how can you make the right choice if you're on a budget?

Choose the right size: Think about how much space you have, both in ceiling height and width, measuring up accurately, because the size you need will designate the cost.

Look for lower-grade bargains: There are various gradings of Christmas trees, with the premium-graded ones having that perfect traditional conical shape and full, uniform appearance.

But customers can find some fantastic 'second grade' trees - it just takes a bit more time to hunt them down, says Andy Little, Christmas tree buyer for British Garden Centres.

Remember, your tree will almost exclusively only be viewed from one position.