There are 13 ingredients in Christmas pudding ... bit of brandy and set on fire, presented aflame to represent the passion of Jesus Christ. Then it's time to eat the pudding, topped with brandy ...

In my household, as in many others, setting fire to the pudding on Christmas afternoon is a traditional and much-loved way of getting into the Christmas spirit, in a more literal sense than most.

It means it’s time for the classic dessert: Christmas pudding. Some families dim the lights, and then set the pudding on fire by pouring warm brandy over the top and lighting it with a match.

Queen Camilla helped flambe a Christmas pudding, warning guests to "hold onto their hair" as the festive treat went up in flames. Article continues below The Queen, who admitted she was a "bit ...