Oscar stars showered with freebies

Oscar nominees and presenters will be showered by even more expensive free gifts than usual next month. Companies compete to get their products in the prestigious basket because of the huge marketing potential – getting clothes, perfume and gadgets into the hands of powerful celebrities.

This year the presents will include a Manolo Blahnik suede lined leather bag, filled with suede sandals by the designer, Veuve Cliquot champagne, a Hermes cashmere blanket, Baccarat crystal earrings for the women and crystal lighters for the men.