It is still 52 days until Christmas - but already shops are being decked out in festive tinsel.

Some have even started to play Christmas carols and pop songs!

But is it all too early? After all, we've only just had Hallowe'en and Bonfire Night is due this weekend.

Christmas is a crucial time for retailers - for some, it's the period when they make their most profits.

But has that mindset simply turned what should be a family event - and for many a special religious festival - into a commercial, money-making operation?

There is also the pressure to make Christmas perfect for everyone - but perhaps that is taking away the meaning of the celebrations.

Have you already started preparing? And have you started your Christmas present shopping yet?

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