When my mother was 75 she chose to go on a canal boat trip with some of her family, and for her 70th she wanted a balloon ride. 'Experience' presents are often the way to go - is it worth asking your mum if there is something she'd really like to do? Of course you don't get the surprise, but she may prefer that - and you can still surprise her with a small present or family meal.

if you decide to go for a present, it depends on her tastes - these days 70 isn't that old, and your mum probably has her own interests and hobbies like anyone else. Vouchers are good too - say her big interest is gardening, or books, or music, or going to shows, you can get a voucher aimed at any of these.

Generally, for a big birthday it can be worth just asking the person what they'd like - as mentioned above you can always find some small treat to surprise her with, and you would be sure of getting her exactly what she likes.