“We will eat pigs-in-blankets this Christmas”, is the message from Butts Farm Shop proprietor Tarryn Draper.

News that staff shortages in large processing plants and a lack of drivers may mean supermarket shelves will be bare of turkeys and other festive dinner table staples has sent a shiver around the country.

But Tarryn has revoked these fears and asked that you people look at their local independent shops for the answer.

“Going to your local farm shop, butchers or greengrocers is a sure way to make sure you get what you need for Christmas,” she said.

“We are not relying on any plants or lots of workers and are able to supply a bird from a farm.

“Christmas eating habits have changed so much over the years, not everyone wants a turkey in the middle of the table. Beef Wellington, a sirloin of beef have both become extremely popular.

“The ham or gammon has also seen a resurgence. Different ways of cooking the festive ham have meant that sales of this have gone up, cooking it in cola or other sweet coatings have over taken the traditional studding with cloves and therefore it has become necessity for the festive period, for a Christmas evening or for Boxing Day.”

Butts Farm shop and Tearooms is located on the Cricklade Road south of Cirencester. You can call or email the shop on 01285 862224 or shop@buttsfarmrarebreeds.co.uk