Large majority of readers think people spend far too much at Christmas

An average £727 will be spent on presents, preparations and celebrations. One in 12 people plan to spend more than £800 on Christmas gifts for family. On average, people expect to splurge £363 on gifts for relatives.

So in our Facebook poll we asked: “Do you think people spend too much over the festive period?” At the time of writing 180 people had voted with 82% saying yes and just 18% no.

Richard Abbott-Brailey said: “If they have earned the money and don’t fall into massive debt, it’s up to the individual how they spend their money. Might want to donate some to those less fortunate though.”

Chris Kelley’s thoughts were: “Spend as much as you want … and can afford.”

Peter Hegney had no doubts, with: “Of course people spend too much on Christmas. Maybe the question should be ‘Do we rely too much on credit to pay for Christmas?’”

Tonie Klingström said: “People spend money on Christmas and then don’t have money in the middle of January, with a long time until payday.”

Michael Jones said: “Who cares? While it Is still their money to spend, pretty sure they can do what they want with it.”

Cass Ashby thought it was relative, saying: “Two weeks wages to some. Maybe £500 to other people might be a month’s wage; to others a day’s worth.