THE traditional Christmas pudding is returning to the heart of festive celebrations, according to Bettys, the family craft bakers and tea rooms.

Una Heron, branch manager at Bettys in York, said demand for its puddings was almost double that of last year.

Her comments came as staff prepared for “stir-up Sunday” – the final Sunday in November, which is the traditional date when homemade Christmas pudding ingredients were stirred-up and steamed.

“Our Christmas puddings are winning compliments all over the country this year,” she said. Meanwhile, Bettys mince pies have just been named the best in the country by Good Housekeeping magazine. The winning pies are made to a family recipe and this year Bettys anticipates selling over 150,000 through its six shops and online from bettys.co.uk