Back in Time for Christmas - 1 ª Season

The 40s were a period of wartime austerity as food was in short supply. Rationing made Xmas dinner a challenge as housewives were forced to make a little go a long way. Xmas trees and decorations were made from whatever there was available and presents were often hand made. By the early 50s rationing was over, housewives could buy whatever food they wanted, and mass produced decorations from the Far East brightened up Xmas. The Robshaws invite their friends to their modern 1950s home for a cocktail party, and celebrate Christmas at church services. By the 60s the economy was booming, there was full employment with rising wages, and there was a lot more money to spend. Turkey was on the dinner menu for the first time and the Robshaws attend their first Xmas Panto. By the end of the decade Xmas was more colourful and commercial than ever.

The Robshaws discover the huge calorie laden feasts of the 70s including a deep fried avocado starter, turkey and the trimmings, Xmas pudding, mince pies and chocolate treats, and settle down to a Morecambe and Wise Xmas special. The 80s were the years of divide, with yuppies and wealth, mass unemployment and poverty, video recorders and a Christmas Eastenders. The Robshaws and guests enjoy a boxing day feast using Xmas day leftovers; tropical turkey with pineapple, followed by a kiwi fruit trifle. The 90s brought excessive Xmas light decorations and outside illuminations and the Post Office was delivering more that one billion cards and gift parcels each year. Food was cheaper than ever and Xmas dinners were becoming easier and ready made, but more indulgent.