But this year, it’s a no brainer why we want to fast-forward to a twinkle time of cheer, bonhomie and escapism.

In the spirit of making this page a Trump, Mandelson and flag-free zone, even I – a steadfast never before December 1 type – am focusing beyond these black days; a time when the US president fawning over royalty in London amid hostile crowds waving obscenity-covered placards, the fallout of the Prince of Darkness’ less than salubrious exchanges with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstien, and sinister flag wars are well behind us.

Not even Milania choosing the colour of Norwich City’s canary yellow for the state banquet on Wednesday could lift spirits this week when so much feels wrong, negative and hopeless.

So full marks to supermarkets for resorting to ingenious tactics and doing what the British do so well when times get tough, throw in chocolate to cheer up the nation diverting thoughts to brighter times ahead.

If it were clever enough, the government could have claimed it as their own tactic to distract voters.

A stroke of marketing brilliance by supermarkets swamped the ugly flag war debate on social media replacing it with an issue that unites and distracts rather than divides and enflames - 50 per cent off Christmas chocolates, including super-sized Milk Tray boxes. Who knew the famous purple box was........

© Eastern Daily Press