Not bright enough to light up a room, not big enough to last for more than a couple of minutes; birthday candles are of no practical use whatsoever. These ickle candles are nevertheless popular cake-top decorations, frequently used to   celebrate the birthdays of both young and old. Typically accompanied by the squawking of well-meaning friends, nothing quite says "Happy Birthday" like a tuneless rendition of the Happy Birthday song and bit of cake with an ickle candle on top. Well, except perhaps a brand new sports car, a giant diamond, or a trip to the Maldives that is ... KW

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