OK you win Carole, have come outta me shell. No wonder you liked Nan's mincemeat, made or shop bought. Nan always mixed whisky in it and let it stand a few days before making up the mince pies. You are right though it was yummy. From what I understand the original recipe from way back when did contain meat, now traditionally the only meat product it contains is suet, so you are correct on that score. Had real problems talking to Carole's Dad about what to get her. One time I spelled out 'scooter' and darned if Carole didn't pipe up 'yes please I would like a scooter for Christmas' Mind you it was so hard for Carole really cos Dad was away in the Navy for most of our Christmases, so they were really a lonely time for her. Ann