IRONICALLY it has become as much a part of Christmas as turkey and sprouts.
The mad rush to the shops that characterises the weeks running up to Christmas have spilled over into the actual holiday itself with bargain hunters out in force before many have even got out of bed on Boxing Day.
This year, those who were out and about first thing were greeted by a crisp, cold morning with a bright blue sky. Just the kind of day when you want to wrap up warm and head out with the family for a much needed walk to blow away the cobwebs and burn off a few of those calories.
Instead, many had queued for those shops which opened their doors at 6am desperate for a bargain.
It says much perhaps about how we approach Christmas these days. For many it has become a celebration of all things consumer-driven.
But there were also many in Huddersfield who took time this Christmas to open their doors or those of community venues, to share what they had with homeless people or those who might otherwise have spent the festive season on their own.
Two very different approaches to the season of goodwill. And though one may well feed the nation’s economy, the other will certainly fuel its spirit.
