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February

Make use of loyalty schemes

Most of us carry a loyalty card in our purses, but how many of us cash in the points? According to moneyexpert.com, a staggering £4.25 billion worth of loyalty points, gift vouchers, credit notes and air miles are going unclaimed. It's worth taking time to check the true value of the points you get when you cash them in. Many major retailers, including Boots, Tesco and Sainsbury's, offer loyalty schemes to entice shoppers.

One of the most generous schemes is the Boots Advantage card, with cardholders earning four points for every £1 spent, while the Tesco Clubcard scheme gives better value - 1p per point for normal purchases but 4p per point against Clubcard deals.

Potential annual saving: £250

Good time to buy: Garden furniture. It tends to be on sale around now before the sun comes out for spring.