IN preparation for the biggest party-time of the year we look at festive fare "yule" definitely want to feast on this December.

Of course, in an ideal world, party hosts would be in a home-baking frenzy before the big event.

But in reality it is more likely to be a trip to the supermarket or speciality shelves to stock up on goodies for everything from a Christmas Day slap-up lunch for all the family to a drinks and nibbles party for a handful of friends.

Marks and Spencer is devoted to helping even the novice party host make the most of Christmas with sumptuous food, wine and floral arrangements.

Save yourself many hours of shopping, preparing and cooking the traditional dinner with M and S's ready-prepared range of table treats to take the stress out of Christmas Day cooking. Start by selecting one of the light seafood dishes such as the Cured and Smoked Fish Selection (£7.99) before tackling the Part Deboned and Stuffed Whole Turkey (from £26.99).

There is a range of different stuffings to choose from, including traditional Sage and Onion (£1.69) and Luxury Apple, Fig and Calvados (£2.49) and Garnish Selection Packs (£4.99) complete with bacon rolls, stuffing balls and cocktail sausages.

And to complete a delicious meal, opt for the ultimate in ease with a Topped Cranberry and Orange Christmas Pudding (£4.99) and a a whole range of Christmas cakes such as the Traditional Long Ivy Cake (£8.99). Non meat-eaters and organic foodies also have an enviable choice of alternative festive meals to choose from thanks to Marks and Spencer's new range of Christmas products. Choose from Nut Loaf (£3.99), Twice Baked Stilton Souffles (£1.99), Vegetable Filo Strudel (£3.49) or Organic Red Leicester and Organic Christmas Cake (£5.99) to name just a few from the ranges.

And what about a Christmas tipple?

Make your party sparkle with Spanish Cava (£3.99) or the "house" champagne (£9.99).

There is also a vast array of party foods that will make you the hostess with the mostess when it comes to fashionable finger buffets.

Why not tempt your guests with Sticky Sausages with a Mustard Mash Dip (£2.99) or a Crispy Dim Sum Selection (£2.99)?

Whatever the scope of your entertaining or your culinary prowess, Marks and Spencer can definitely lend a welcome helping hand this festive season.