December was the last year of the old Roman year which was divided into ten months.

The Saxons called it ‘winter-monat’ (winter month) and ‘heligh-monat’ (holy month) from the fact that Christmas fell within it.

The 22nd December is the date of the Winter Solstice, when the sun reaches the tropic of Capricorn.

“In December, keep yourself warm and sleep.”


So what’s in season?

Pears are a good source of fibre and vitamins and particularly festive when poached in mulled wine.

Pears! Also Brussels sprouts, spring green cabbage, white cabbage, savoy cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, kale, leeks and potatoes.