Festive feast on a shoestring
Simon Jones, 57, says tight budgets won’t stop him putting on a spread.
“I can feed eight of us for £3.30 a head — and still have leftovers,” he told Swansea Bay News.
With a frozen turkey crown from Iceland, a Welsh beef joint from his local butcher, and piles of veg, Simon has slashed the average cost of Christmas dinner in half.
Budgets are tight while Simon takes time off work awaiting two hip replacements and a knee operation, but he’s determined to make Christmas special.
“It’s about family, not how much you spend,” he said. “With planning, you can still have a proper Christmas.”
Leftovers keep on giving
Simon’s plan stretches beyond Christmas Day.
“On Boxing Day we’ll have bubble and squeak with cheese, then curries with the leftover meat. Nothing goes to waste,” he said.
Even Alfie, the family’s French bulldog, gets his share.
“He’s fussy — only diced beef and lamb will do. Iceland’s three‑for‑£12 deal keeps him happy,” Simon laughed.
Inspired by Michael Sheen
Simon says Port Talbot’s own Michael Sheen has inspired him to share his story.
“Michael Sheen has done amazing work here — clearing debts, supporting families. He’s very well thought of. If he can help people, I can share my tips too.”
Making Christmas count
Awaiting surgery, Simon is off work but determined to make Christmas special.
“Budgets are tight, but with planning you can still have a proper Christmas. It’s about family, not how much you spend.”
Spreading the cost
Simon also uses the Fair for You Shopping Card loan to spread the cost of essentials. He says it helps him budget for festive food and even Alfie’s meals.
“I can put it on my Iceland bonus card and get £1 back for every £20 spent — it all adds up,” he explained.
Dining and Cooking