British Guard with Bearskin Hat Christmas Wooden Nutcracker 12 in by Wizardi F07M14-38-N01724D

Bring a touch of London to Christmas with the British Guard, a wooden nutcracker by Wizardi — a royal guard in a tall black bearskin hat with a gold chain, a black beard and moustache, and a dark green jacket swirled with gold pattern and gold-trimmed epaulettes over red sleeves. He holds a long gold staff, with red trousers and black boots laced in gold on a green base.

A little collector's folklore: the bearskin hats of the King's Guard stand nearly half a metre tall, and the guards are famous for never moving a muscle. Collectors say this one stays just as still — until everyone is asleep on Christmas Eve.

Why this nutcracker: if you love British history or the Changing of the Guard, he is a distinguished alternative to the usual red soldier. Deep green, red and gold feel rich and traditional, and at about 12 inches he suits a bookshelf, desk or mantel.

In the box: one British Guard nutcracker in painted wood with a black faux-fur bearskin hat and beard, packed in a red gift box with a window. A decorative nutcracker, not intended for cracking nuts. Ready to display, no assembly needed.

Complete the regiment with the swordsman, king and drummer in the same series (F07M14-38-N01724A, B and C). Dust with a soft, dry brush and keep away from moisture and heat. A decoration, not a toy.

Size: 30 cm tall (11.8 in). Classic Christmas shelf and mantel decor, and a fine gift for nutcracker collectors and anglophiles.