MORE people probably troop through your house during Christmas than at any time of year.

It's a great season for getting in touch with people we haven't seen for ages and of course, for inviting them to parties.

But what will they think when they step through your front door?

Does your home offer them a festive welcome or cold cheer?

Take our ten top tips to make sure your home is a place they'll want to come back to.

1) How's your front door? Make it a sight to see with a holly wreath, or a decorated potted shrub.

2) The hall is the first part of the house they experience. Make sure it's free of clutter, and give it a touch of festive appeal with fairylights kitsch, but charming!

3) Make the whole house smell of Christmas, either by burning cinammon joss sticks or by brewing up a bowl of punch on the stove. The scent will flood through your whole home.

4) Warm the cockles of their heart with a real fire. if your fireplace is blocked, it may simply need some remedial work to open it up again, but gas is a convenient alternative and there are even some electric fires now that can give the effect.

5) Lower the lights to create a more intimate feel. Instead of harsh overheads, rely on lamps move them round the room until you get the right effect.

6) Dine by candlelight. There's no light more romantic and intimate.

7) Indulge in some super-fluffy hand-towels and luxurious soaps for the bathroom.

8) No matter how busy you are in there, make space for people in the kitchen. It's always the heart of the house, and they'll always end up there!

9) In the guest bedroom, splash out on a velvet throw and some cushions for the bed. Ideal for snuggling.

10) Most important don't try too hard and get ina tizzy. A relaxed host is the best way of all to make guests feel welcome!