With the credit crunch tightening everyone�s pockets this year, it is easy to opt for cheaper alternatives in the kitchen, but Cucina Direct says it is important not to compromise on quality. In fact, high quality professional cookware items often offer greater value for money as they are seen as long-term investments. All of these �investment� items make perfect gifts for keen cooks this Christmas and are available in one catalogue and website with Cucina Direct.

Le Creuset Cast Iron Casseroles (Estimated 20p per use based on using the dish once a week for 10 years). Every good cook knows and loves the classic Le Creuset casserole, the most popular Le Creuset product. It is made from super-smooth enamelled cast iron that�s extremely durable and suitable for use on all hobs, including induction, as well as in the oven and under the grill. Multiple layers of incredibly strong, chip-resistant enamel are carefully applied to each piece, creating a tough, non-reactive surface that will give excellent service through the years, making it a great investment piece. Available in a range of new colours � Almond, Cerise and Graded Blue, as well as the company�s trademark Volcanic Orange � the Le Creuset Cast Iron Casserole dish comes with a lifetime manufacturer�s guarantee Le Creuset Casserole (24cm) - �104.95 - see cost per use above

All-Clad Copper Core Pans (Estimated 48p per use based on using the pan once a week for 10 years). Investing in these ultimate-quality pans is the mark of a truly professional-level cook. Used by leading chefs�, these incredible pans are handcrafted to the very highest quality, yet they are hard for even dedicated home cooks to find. The body of each pan features a five-layer bonded sandwich of premium stainless steel, high-grade aluminium and pure copper, which gives incredibly even heat distribution, robustness and ease of cleaning. What�s more, these are not heavy pans, so you can work deftly and easily to produce the kind of cuisine a top restaurant would be proud to serve. Suitable for all hobs except induction, the All-Clad pans have a lifetime manufacturer�s guarantee. All-Clad Copper Core Pans � from �249.95 See cost per use above

Furi Knives (Estimated 7p per use based on using the knife once a week for 10 years). Leading chefs are calling Furi�s all-stainless steel knives �revolutionary� thanks to the cutting-edge design, which is based on how top chefs and skilled home cooks work. The uniquely ergonomic �reverse wedge� integral handle, has a finger groove that prevents the hand slipping towards the blade. Each handle is also tipped with a copper counterweight, so as the blade gets marginally lighter after years of heavy use, this can be gently filed to maintain perfect balance, ensuring that the knives don�t need to be regularly replaced. Furi Knives � from �39.95

To view the full range of products available through Cucina Direct visit www.cucinadirect.co.uk or call 0844 482 1144.

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Notes to Editors Scotts & Co. is the multi-title mail order catalogue specialist consisting of a diverse group of nine brands known as �partner companies�, which includes some of Britain�s best-known names, such as Scotts of Stow and The Original Gift Company. Each of the businesses operate independently and with a unique character, but have the benefit of a single Customer Service Centre, to bring the best possible service to the customer. Cucina Direct is packed with stylish ideas, tempting treats and practical solutions � especially for entertaining cooks.

PR Contacts: For further information, product samples and page spreads please contact: Nadya Willard or Susannah Morrison at Brighter PR T: 020 7603 2168 or E: firstname.surname@brightergroup.com