As winter approaches, think more seasonally about wine`

This point in November should be known as the “betwixt” time of autumn. The novelty of entering “cosy season” has well and truly worn off, and the grass seems more damp and soggy than “jewelled” these days.

- ROSAMUND HALL

Bonfire Night and Halloween have disappeared in a puff of smoke, and it’s still too early to be decking the halls with baubles while you belt out your finest Mariah rendition.

I don’t know about you, but everything can feel a bit flat and underwhelming, and I find it a really tough time to remain joyful. I don’t want you to think I’m a doom-monger – actually, I’m very much a glass-half-full type of person (it must be my profession). And so there are several things that I do to combat this time of year.