Sarah Allison

Project Manager – Cumbria Innovations Platform

Describe a typical Christmas Day in your household

Christmas day starts early when you have children!

After the initial excitement with my son we usually have a very chilled morning, having a late breakfast or brunch with a little glass of something fizzy.

A traditional Christmas dinner is a must in our house. There’s nothing better than spending the day surrounded by close family.

Dinner usually lasts until early evening and often ends with the port bottle and some lovely local cheeses.

Which was your best Christmas – and why?

There have been many but probably the first Christmas my son was old enough to understand what Christmas was all about. Seeing his little face light up was truly magical.

Who do you think would make the most entertaining guest to invite to Christmas dinner (dead or alive) – and why?

This would have to be someone with a great sense of humour and able make us laugh. A comedian, perhaps, would be good, maybe Billy Connolly or Peter Kay.

What was your best Christmas present as a child?

It was a ‘Baby Alive’ doll that you could actually feed with ‘special food’ and change its nappy afterwards. It ended up with constipation and needed unblocking, resulting in much hilarity.

What is your favourite carol or Christmas pop song – and why?

Chris Rea's Driving Home for Christmas. I used to play it while driving back to Cumbria from London where I worked at the time. I also love Fairy Tale of New York - the chorus makes me cry every time.

What is your favourite festive ramble for walking off all the mince pies and turkey?

I’ve lived in many places so it’s difficult to choose one walk. St Bees beach ranks quite highly and the fells around Cockermouth are lovely for short rambles too. We’re spoiled in the Lakes, so many lovely walks to choose from.

If you could spend Christmas Day anywhere in the world, apart from at home, where would it be – and why?

I’ve spent Christmases in hot climates and didn’t like it so my ideal place would have to be somewhere cold and snow covered. Perhaps a log cabin or cottage with a roaring log fire and lots mulled wine!