Christmas, a time of Anglo-Germanic traditions and gift-giving, wasn't always as jolly as it seems. Back in 1860, during the height of the Victorian era, Prince Albert, the Queen's Consort, received a Christmas gift that was as unwelcome as today's Virgin Experience vouchers.

According to Albert's diaries, nestled among the sweetmeats and foreign territories under the tree was an envelope that caused him great concern and his wife, Queen Victoria, delightful amusement. It was a voucher for a piercing of a very personal nature.

The diary entry humorously describes Albert's trepidation at presenting his private parts to the Royal Ironmonger for 'a procedure both secret and painful,' all in the hope of some 'licentious delights' to follow. Despite his reservations, the Queen's insistence left him with little choice.

And so, Prince Albert became the first Briton to sport such an intimate adornment, a fact unrelated to his death from infection in 1861. Today, he is commemorated by the Albert Hall and EastEnders' Albert Square.

Next week's historical dive will cover Christmas Day 1979, when the UK tuned in en masse to watch To The Manor Born due to a lackluster offering from ITV.