What to buy for the most awkward people in your life this Christmas

From the family mutt to the guy who works with your husband, Esther N McCarthy has selecting presents all wrapped up

Fadó, fadó, gifts at Christmas were a simple affair. A toy for the child, a box of chocolates for the mother, socks for the dad, and a box of biscuits for everyone else. Thanks a million, job done, let’s have some turkey now.

For better or for worse, the present-giving circle has rippled out of all control. The teacher, the boss, the godfather, his wife and kids, the au pair and her three friends, the neighbour’s new puppy and the dentist receptionist who squeezes you in for a last-minute appointment.