THERE are certain presents you just know you are going to get. For a more inventive Christmas this year, DVLA has more than 15 million different and personal ideas available for purchase which could be just the inspiration you need to find the perfect original and surprise gift.

With the choice of both prefix and current style registrations the scope for creativity is huge.

Already people have bought plates with their initials or names on them (EM52 CAR): with nicknames (PE53 NUT); featuring their favourite football teams (ALO2 LEG); their hobbies and professions (V9 VET); and marque and model specific plates (TTO2 MAT). Some of the more wacky and unique plates have included L444FUN on the back of a children's entertainer’s van and G8 MOO found on a cow-painted smart car!

Louise Pierpoint, DVLA’s publicity manager said: “If people are not sure of what numbers are available I would advise them to log on to the website, www.dvlaregistrations.co.uk and use our search facilities, which can make finding the right plate very easy. You can search for a particular plate or a particular set of letters and all the prices you see include VAT and the assignment fee.”

Registrations start from £250 (including VAT and assignment fee). To purchase a personalised registration, simply call 0870 6000 142 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday or on Saturday, from 9am to 1pm.