We've worked out all the timing for your Christmas dinner, so simply follow our guide and get the kids lined up to do the washing up.

They'll be dealing with clean plates!

As early as possible... * Order your fresh turkey - organic and free-range taste best - to be delivered on Christmas Eve, or take your pick of the frozen turkeys in the supermarket before the best are gone.

The week before Christmas... * Check if any of your guests are vegetarian, and get in an alternative to the turkey.

* If there's any space in your freezer, fill it with half-baked rolls to warm up on the day.

One or two days before * Start thawing the turkey. It's essential that this is done properly to avoid food poisoning.

* Buy your vegetables and make sure you have enough pans to cook them all in.

* If you make your own cranberry sauce, this is the time to do it or give in and get a jar...

* Check out stuffing recipes. Some need chestnuts, which may need to be soaked before preparation.

Christmas Eve... * Peel your vegetables and leave them in cold water overnight. It will minimise the hassle in the morning so you can enjoy watching the kids unwrapping their presents. And unwrappign your own, of course.

* Stuff the turkey at the neck end and put it in the fridge. Work out how long the cooking will take see our guide below.

Christmas Day morning, early... * Put the turkey in. It will need basting every 45 minutes, unless you like shoe-leather on your plate. It's also a good idea to wrap the drumsticks in tin foil, or buy a turkey roasting bag.

40 minutes before... * Put on the potatoes and parsnips. Open the wine. Sample it...

* Cook any stuffing left over. Put cranberry sauce onto the dish and put starters on the plates.

20 minutes before... * Heat the bread sauce. Pour yourself a glass or wine. Or two.

10 minutes before... * Put the turkey on a warmed serving plate and leave it to stand before you carve it. Dish everything out.

* Enjoy your dinner you deserve it!