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Survey reveals 50% of Merseyside families planning on a 'virtual Christmas' this year

SNOW laughing matter... Having spent months in lockdown and following a surge in infections recently, Brits are well aware that social distancing regulations are serious business. Even though it may not seem like it, Christmas is right around the corner, meaning some of us are beginning to think about the festive season and more specifically, starting to save up to cover all the costs involved. However, due to the severity and scale of the Pandemic and the possibility that social distancing will be implemented well into 2021, could the UK be in store for a not so merry Christmas in 2020?

Christmas.Co.UK, conducted a survey of 2,600 respondents on their Pandemic predictions for the festive season. It was found that 49% of Meyerside families say they plan on having a:- 'virtual Christmas' rather than seeing extended family in person over the festive season. Considering a Post Pandemic future is largely unpredictable, it is perhaps no wonder that many would prefer to have a celebratory dinner via video call, rather than sitting up close at the dinner table with multiple family members, including those that may be more prone to illness.

It seems many Brits have been avid users of video platforms as nearly 41% say the extended lockdown has brought them closer to their family. Now more than ever, connecting with a family member from across the country is as simple as pressing a green call button.

However, having socially distanced for so long also means people are missing the experience of spending quality time in the presence of loved ones. 86% say Christmas is the most difficult time of year to spend without family around. This was followed by:- 9% New Year, 3% Easter and 2% Birthdays.

Additionally, given the current state of the economy, 50% of couples say they will have to start saving earlier in order to buy Christmas gifts this year. Considering many are struggling to make ends meet, it is perhaps understandable why just 18% say they will have to borrow money to cover Christmas costs this year.

Sleigh it ain't snow... People are willing to breach the law for their loved ones this festive season; 29% of survey respondents say they would break the rules to see family if lockdown regulations were imposed again over Christmas!

Avoid replacing professional displays with dangerous fireworks at home, Councils and Fire Services warn

ANYONE planning a home display must avoid buying fireworks from unlicensed and potentially unsafe illegal outlets, such as through social media, car boot sales or from vehicles or private houses. With many professional, public displays cancelled because of the Pandemic, the Local Government Association;- which represents Councils and fire and rescue Authorities across England; said people should only buy fireworks from licensed retailers and store them securely to avoid risks to life and property. As well as ensuring fireworks purchased are safe and legal, the LGA said people should check their local fire service's Fireworks Code before lighting anything to celebrate Bonfire Night and Diwali in the coming weeks. People must also remember check the Covid19 Government guidelines in their area around social gatherings if they plan to host or visit a home display, as this may not be possible.

Cllr Ian Stephens, Chair of the LGA's Fire Services Management Committee, said:- "We know this year is very different to most and in the absence of public firework displays, people will want to recreate 1 at home, but it is so important that fireworks are treated with respect and handled safely. The safest option this year would be to give fireworks a miss and find a different way of celebrating, but we know many will want to have a home display. If they do it is vital that they are familiar with the Firework Code and ensure they purchase legal and safe fireworks."

Cllr Nesil Caliskan, Chair of the LGA's Safer and Stronger Communities Board, said:- "Fireworks can be dangerous and we know that illegal fireworks increase the risk of them causing life changing injuries. If people plan on putting on a home display, it is vital that they buy their fireworks from reputable and licensed sellers. Fireworks should be checked to confirm that they have the CE safety mark on them and then used in appropriate settings in accordance with the safety instructions. Sellers should also make sure they're selling to over 18's otherwise they increase the risk of anti-social behaviour and serious injury. Not only that, but they could face a hefty fine and even a prison sentence if caught selling to a minor."

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents Firework Code is available to read and anyone who suspects someone is selling fireworks illegally should contact their local Council's Trading Standards via Citizens Advice on:- 03454 040506.