Some days just etch themselves on to the calendar in such a way there's no need to say the actual date. Everyone knows when Christmas Day is, just as they do Hallowe'en and Guy Fawkes Night.

And now there's another. Yes, a missive came across Bogof's desktop this week reading: "I understand your magazine might be interested in receiving some information on the Marmalade Festival, which takes place in Cumbria in February on National Marmalade Day."

Ah! National Marmalade Day, that special date when we cast aside all honey, Marmite and peanut butter, to celebrate the wonders of the orange stuff. Say no more.

"Central to the festival is an international marmalade-making competition with about nine categories," my correspondent continued. The competition "will unite home-made preserves from across the world".

In addition, "the world's most expensive pot of marmalade" will be on show. This, apparently is "worth" £5,000 on account of it containing vintage Champagne, a 60-year-old malt whisky and gold leaf.

Now, I know food prices are rising, but that's just silly. Someone pass the strawberry jam please.