IT’S SMART TO START CHRISTMAS SHOPPING NOW

IT’S July so it must be time for . . . Christmas! Well, not quite. In fact, there are ‘only’ 156 days to go until the big day.

The thing is that, as you know, one of the best ways to save money is to buy out of season, so now is a great time to pick up bargains.

Make the most of the cut-price ranges like Asda’s Just Essentials range, which includes sage and onion stuffing for 30p, batter mix for 25p and mixed fruit for £1.

At Tesco, you can save for Christmas and get a cash bonus with its Clubcard Christmas

Savers account. You can get an extra 6 per cent by topping up your account with cash to turn into vouchers.

The hot summer is also the best time to buy Christmas presents in the sales and at charity shops. Many charity shops in posher areas have donated gifts that make perfect presents. These tend to disappear from November onwards.

Now is also the cheapest time to get the house sorted for the winter. If you have a dicky boiler that may break down, it could be the best time to replace it as there are offers around.

E.on and British Gas have offers on new boiler installation. E.on’s is £1,995 at 0 per cent finance for up to four years and British Gas is offering boilers at various prices with 0 per cent finance for up to three years and £200 off for their own customers.

Or get a local plumber to install an even cheaper boiler. Put the job on Bark.com and see who offers the best deal.

For the boiler, I have an offer with Boiler Central. Use the code JASMINE150 on its website boilercentral. for £150 off any of the boilers in its range. Offer ends on August 14, 2022.