SAVVY Christmas planning

Wise up to feel-good festive finances

Joanna Reekie, 47, from County Durham, has found a way to enjoy the festive season without breaking the bank. Throughout the year, she puts money aside with Park Christmas Savings. Then, when November rolls round, she receives a selection of vouchers and gift cards, ready for Christmas shopping and gifting.

‘A woman I worked with introduced me to Park about six years ago, and it’s great. I put money aside each month, so when Christmas arrives, it doesn’t feel like a big expense. I started when my kids were young and it was great being able to buy all the toys they wanted. Now they’re bigger, the presents have got smaller – but they’re more expensive! With big-ticket items like a PS5 for my son Lewis and an imac for my daughter Ellie, having Park vouchers meant it didn’t feel like a big financial hit.

‘Lewis was really pleased to get clothes from JD Sports, too, while Ellie loved all her Primark buys. My four nieces all got £25 Love2shop gift cards, and I even treated myself at M&S.

Brilliant choices

‘This year, I’m putting money towards the new chip-and-pin Purple Card, which you can use at loads of retailers in-store or online. I let my payments roll on, so I don’t miss the money and I pay by direct debit. Because last year’s payments totalled £1,500, Park gave me a 3.5% bonus. It came off my last payment for the year, which felt like a big perk for just giving myself peace of mind at Christmas.’