Ask someone to name the first thing that comes to mind when they think of Christmas and 'presents' is likely to be the top answer.

Each year the nation goes mad in search of the latest gadget or toy that no good Christmas could be the same without, even if it does end up at the back of the wardrobe with the Furby by spring.

And this year it's not just the little boys and girls hoping they have made the nice list - big kids and little kids alike want to unwrap a Nintendo Wii games console on Christmas morning.

But are there any shops with this year's most sought-after product in stock? Our survey said Ho Ho No, sold out.

So what is everyone buying instead? To find out what Santa's helpers in Oxford are filling stockings with, the Oxford Mail hit the shops in Oxford to ask them.

Paul Topping, store manager at Curry's, said: "This year everyone is still going mad for the Apple iPod. And it's not just the youngsters either, there are lots of elderly people disappointed that we're currently sold out of Ipod Nano's.

"The Nintendo DS is another top seller and of course the Nintendo Wii which have sold out to those who pre-ordered them."

Matt Unwin, manager at the Disney Store, said: "People may be going crazy for the latest gadgets and games consoles but they still love Disney. This year everyone is buying the Lightning McQueen remote control car."

Jenny Nichols, store manager at Game, said: "The most in demand is, of course, the Nintendo Wii. Today alone I have taken 20 phone calls from customers asking if we have them in stock but we're completely sold out and we don't know if Nintendo will deliver any more in time for Christmas.

"The Nintendo DS Lite handheld games console is another top seller."

Susan Potter, a 47-year-old housewife said: "I must be very lucky because this year I haven't had too much trouble getting all the presents I wanted to buy."

Sam Wallbridge, 35, a teaching assistant said: "I know some people who are struggling to track down a Nintendo DS but I managed to find what I wanted for my seven-year-old daughter Lucy. I can't reveal it before Christmas Day, but it is on the Oxford Mail's list of hot toys for Christmas this year."

Chris Brewster, 22, student said: "My brother really wanted a Nintendo Wii but we couldn't get one anywhere."

Sisters Natalie Whiting, 20, and Kristina Whiting, 17, have agreed to get each other lots of little gifts.

"We have banned big, over-the-top presents this year and we're buying our family small and meaningful gifts instead," they agreed.