Those buying cheese hampers may be contributing to a resurgence for British cheddar.

According to the BBC, a decline in the proportion of the foodstuff imported from other countries can be attributed in part to more people preferring to buy locally-sourced goods.

More than half the cheese sold in the first eight months of last year was from abroad, but the news source noted Dairy Company figures have shown this is decreasing.

Chairman of Wyke Farms in Bruton John Clothier welcomed a trend that is seeing some retailers opt for exclusively British cheese.

"Dairy farms are under a lot of pressure from increased costs and are not making too much money at the moment," he observed.

Meanwhile, Claire Macdonald of the Scotsman has described cheddar cheese as one of the "most invaluable items in the fridge".

She recommended pairing it with bacon for a variety of quick and easy dishes.