Being the Cynical ''BarSteward'' that I am.... [no sh1t 'Sherlock'!....and that's enough Brand/Ross style 'shock jock' tactics!] it is obvious I loathe this time of the year with a blood-curdling vengance.

However things they are a 'changing'! getting older, wiser, thinking more and indeed the 'Baby Jacob' factor....gods know I'm even developing a 'nesting instinct'!  I've been buying cushoins and 400thread count bedlinen! Next it will be 'speed dating'! Would like to meet.... then again! Guy Richie anyone? Well now I've come to mention..... 30million in the bank & half of Wiltshire as his garden!
 
What I am very aware of is my new mantra in that support local, independents and spend what little 'festive' cash I have wisely..as wisely as those 'fabled' Wise Men... ensured all my gift buying will centre around my home towns of Lancaster & NW3... So coffee & tea from Atkinson's, natural candles from Arteria, Mulberry Home from MacKies and from home No2....food & goodies from XO Deli, books from Daunt and a ''sprinkling'' of magic from Liberty...ok so that's stretching the 'independent' bit a 'tad' but not much!
 
For obvious reasons I cannot do the 'coals from Newcastle' bit, come on! Now that would be a cop out! But! But!....There is no reason why You shouldn't!  I know I've been 'banging on' about spending habits, supporting 'local' and those You can trust so I'll do it again..and again if I have to! Yes we are here to help and provide the level of service You have come to know and expect.

Check my previous columns if You don't believe me! We have the Brands, the stock, the latest & greatest kit! We've got ''know how'', experience and so much more! And like a ''puppy'' we are not simply for Christmas! ....

Already 2009 is featuring largely in our forward planning..new Team members, James & George, brands...already outlined.. and more to come, events....Orange & Yeti days and so much more!
 
So as You write your Present List don't forget to bracket your No1 Bike & Kit store... Us! We are here to help!
 
 
[PS. Memo to myself..... Xmas wish list.... one ex of the queen of pop.... ??]