We asked the people of Nottingham if Yorkshire puddings belong on Christmas dinner - and the answer might surprise you

Christmas is full of controversial talking points such as 'What's the best Christmas song/film or Quality Street?' And whether you love it or loathe the festive season, you're pretty much guaranteed to have an opinion on these topics.

In the lead-up to the big day, we've been asking our readers a series of questions about Christmas, to understand a bit more about what is important to the people of Nottingham during December.

By far the question which stirred the greatest debate was 'Do Yorkshire puddings belong on a Christmas dinner?'

Read more: Food and drink in Nottingham

Now, I'm not entirely sure what qualifies the people of Nottingham to answer this question with such authority - we don't live in Yorkshire after all - but you answered with such passion and determination that I've no choice but to believe we are a county filled with experts.

We can all agree the fundamental components of a Christmas dinner are non-negotiable. Turkey, pigs in blankets, red cabbage, stuffing, roast potatoes, parsnips, carrots, sprouts and gravy. But there are a couple of side dishes that are household dependent such as cauliflower cheese, bread sauce, and (gasps) Yorkies.

After much debate and some *Scroogesque comments from a couple of readers (I see you), the people of Nottingham have decided that... YES, of course, Yorkshire puddings belong on a Christmas dinner.

Phew. We were worried for a second.

Amanda Booth gave a diplomatic response saying: "I think it's about choice. Personally, we would have them if there was room but it's also ok if you don't."

Michelle Elliot was enthusiastic in her answer, saying: "It's basically a roast dinner so hell yeah!"

Craig Bartlam was to the point in his reply: "Why is this even a question of course they do."

Pudding for pudding

Of course, sometimes I just like to stir the pot by asking these questions, but this time I feel as though I have made a revolutionary culinary discovery - that people in Nottingham have been enjoying for years. Yorkshire... wait for it... PUDDINGS.

People here in Notts are enjoying this ~usually~ (don't come for me) savoury treat with jam as a dessert. This never really entered into my mind as a possibility until now but it's essentially a crispy, puffy pancake!

Roy Conway wrote: "Yorkshire puddings can be eaten with anything, especially with blackcurrant jam."

Gail Maxfield said: "Yes, why not? Though my dad always had his as a pudding with jam. Prefer mine made with whole milk though!"

Trevor William Hughes said: "Yes, and after with jam."

So this Christmas we're saying to hell with tradition, if you want Yorkshires, have one, actually have three, and another for dessert too. Christmas calories categorically Do. Not. Count.

* A very real word to describe someone doing something in the manner of Ebenezer Scrooge. I.e. moodily.