Choose from hamper options like the port and stilton hamper, Irish cheese hamper and the foodie box, which contains a cornucopia of gourmet treats including organic lemonade and Galantino olive oil.

Alternatively, design your own hamper. Prices start from 32. Email: info@sheridancheesemongers. com; tel: Dublin 01 679 3134; Galway 091 564829.

2 Smeg Fridge

The daddy of all fridges and more like a piece of art than kitchen equipment. At 1,599, it's not exactly cheap but it will be more than appreciated. Available from Clerys.

3 Cake Stand

Give afternoon tea the gravitas it deserves and display scones, lemon drizzle cake and other home-baked treats on this magnificent three-tiered cake stand from Habitat, 90.

4 Lara Lu Hampers

Valrhona chocolate, Spanish tapas, handmade Italian biscuits and Irish preserves and relishes are some of the goodies contained within.

Prices start from 50 and can be picked up in the George's Street Arcade, Dublin 2, or delivered by hand anywhere in the city centre. Call 087 9908003 or log on to laralufoods. com/hamper

5 Polaine bread

When it comes to artisan bread, French bakery Polaine reigns supreme. The foodie in your life will adore one of their decorated loaves, which weight 1.9 kg, are made with wheat flour and garnished with a decoration. The decorations are changed every month according to precise seasonal themes, or you can also ask for a personal message to be inscribed. Alternatively, get the 1.1lb box of the famous butter cookies, known as 'punitions' or punishments.

Check www. polaine. fr for prices and postage.