We have ALWAYS had real ones at Mum and Dads up until 10 years ago when I moved back home with my jack russell X Tobi ... Mum and Dad have had a fake tree ever since and I swear it doesn't feel the same at their place now when they have the fake tree up.

I have to have a laugh at all the spider scaredy cats ... You know in ALL the years I have had a real tree, I have NEVER seen a Huntsman Spider in or on the tree. In the box of decorations, yes! In the house generally sheltering from heat or rain, yes! but NEVER on the tree. Ok so I have just jinxed myself.

I never have and never will buy a fake tree. I also ONLY buy from the tree farms, they are cheaper than buying from the supermarkets and it supports local growers. Last year we have an 8ft this year I want a BIGGER one, we're going tree shopping next weekend, hopefully. There is nothing like THAT SMELL wafting through the house. All the mess is so worth it.