Supermarkets already in gear for Christmas

Christmas has already arrived in supermarkets, with some retailers kicking off the season's promotions with three months to go.

Packets of mince pies were on sale at selected Sainsbury's stores for 59p on September 1 - 115 days before Christmas.

This week they were joined by Christmas puddings on a three-for-two deal and 5 tins of Quality Street confectionery. Decorations will hit stores later this month.

Malcolm Pinkerton, from retail analysts Verdict, said: "I think consumers are still hoping the summer hasn't gone."

However a Sainsbury's spokesman said retailers were only responding to consumer demand.

He said: "It helps them spread the cost of Christmas and manage their budgets."