CHRISTMAS is a time when most cheese-lovers enjoy some special treats, whether it’s a great Stilton (with or without port) or one of the country’s finest traditional Cheddars, for which we are spoiled for choice!

Among the best are the three great Somerset traditional farmhouse Cheddars, from Keens near Wincanton, Montgomerys of North Cadbury and Westcombe, just outside Bruton.

Another outstanding cheesemaker is Quicke’s, run by Mary Quicke, who farms just outside Crediton in Devon. For Christmas, Quicke’s has a range of truckles, including a whole mature Cheddar truckle, a miniature version of the classic clothbound Cheddar, and mini truckles of Devonshire Red and Double Devonshire.