AS Santa graced us with his presence at the Crowngate on Sunday, it inspired me to write a Fair Point about Christmas.

I do adore this festive time of year. The family get togethers, the overwhelming amount of food and booze, those cheerful jumpers and overplayed Christmas tunes. In my house, The Pogues Christmas classic, Fairytale of New York is on repeat, yet somehow none of us still know the actual lyrics.

The concept of Christmas means different things to everybody. For some, it is spending time with loved ones. To others it could be the excitement of giving gifts.

When we were children, the Christmas holiday was a time when we would be on our best behaviour. We understood Father Christmas and his elves would be watching over us to see if we have been good boys and girls and thus receive presents. This concept has helped parents over the years to teach their kids the importance of good behaviour, and of course, getting the children to bed on time as 'Santa is watching.'

As we grow older, Christmas takes on a whole other meaning. My mum always reminds me of when she was a child and waking up on Christmas morning to find a fresh orange in her stocking was considered a luxury. Now however, I could not dream of any child finding a piece of fruit in their stocking. There would be an outrage!

It does make me wonder, over the years has Christmas taught us to become greedy? It seems Christmas is increasingly becoming about buying extravagant gifts none of us can actually afford.

I browse through Facebook, as you do to see what everyone is up to, and parents are posting what they have bought their children for Christmas. I was surprised to discover some kids will be having the new iPhone. I understand why families would like their children to a have a phone for the purpose of safety, however splurging out on something so luxurious for a child seems a bit OTT.

It is a challenge in this country not to teach our children to want more and more. With social media and peer pressure, nowadays it is a trend to have the latest of everything.

We should take a step back and appreciate what we already have. After all, Christmas is not about how much money you spend, but the time you value with your loved ones.