'The countdown is on!' Marks & Spencer launches 'fab' new festive essential in stores now

In a new post, Marks & Spencer said: "New in the M&S Foodhall – The countdown is already on.

"You’ve probably seen this a-door-able advent calendar all over your Instagram and TikTok feeds already…but have you managed to get your hands on the viral sensation yourself yet?

"Made up of our favourite treat bag essentials, this whopper of a calendar has been setting social media alight, despite still being two months away from the first door being opened.

"Filled with 24 days of individual treats, including festive blond fudge bites, mini whips and giant caramel buttons, Christmas Day features a bag of our much-loved gigantic chocolate buttons for an extra serving of festive cheer.

"Get yours in the Foodhall now…but make sure you find a good hiding place because the temptation to start opening is real. Find the calendar now in your local M&S Foodhall or online at @ocadouk."

It confirmed the new advent calendar is available for £12 and shoppers have shared their excitement at the idea of trying it.

One commented, "oh fab!! Something a bit different, love it", while another simply said they "need" to get it.

Another shopper described it as a "beaut of an advent calendar" while one more tagged a loved one and said, "I want this one please".

Chocolate fans left comments such as, "how good does it look?" and said that they are already "counting down the days" to opening it.

While some did comment it's "too early" for Christmas, other eager customers said they have already picked it and up that they "just need to resist opening it before December 1".

Christmas food, clothing and decorations have been lining supermarket shelves for weeks now, giving Britons plenty of opportunity to prepare for the big day in advance.

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Marks & Spencer shoppers can even order their Christmas Day food now for pick up in the days before Christmas.

M&S has an array of popular items available for order this festive season. According to the retailer, the "star of the show" is their "Best Ever Slow-Cooked Turkey" (£85, 2.75kg), a free-range Pembrokeshire turkey crown brined in buttermilk for tenderness.

The Collection British Wagyu Rump of Beef (£60, 1kg) offers a luxurious option if you are looking for an alternative to turkey this year.

Those avoiding meat can enjoy the Vegetarian Nut Roast (£12, 800g) packed with nuts, cranberries and Barbers Cheddar.