Why we all need a bit of Valentine’s spirit – and the gifts worth giving

You can be a Grinch about it or, as Jess Cartner-Morley wrote in her latest Filter edit, you can embrace Valentine’s Day as the “daft festival of joy in the bleakest moment of the calendar” that it is. At its simplest, the day is a prompt in unromantic February to cherish the people you love — and the world could use more of that sentiment right now.

We steered clear of throwaway, unimaginative presents and picked thoughtful ideas that last beyond 14 February. Flowers are included, but in the form of longer-lasting stained-glass alternatives and subscriptions rather than a single bunch. Other considered choices include a candle that melts into a massage oil, a mini photo book and a two-cup flask for couple hikes.

There’s no need to spend a fortune: we found an M&S fragrance under £10 that’s a good dupe for a Jo Malone scent, and an affordable table tennis set to unleash your competitive side.

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