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Saint Paul's Cathedral
UK News

Christmas traditions losing appeal

by Desmond Busteed

Researchers have found that 58 per cent said gift-buying will take priority over Christmas, with one in ten saying that shopping is the most important tradition.

In comparison, nearly a quarter of those polled (22%) believe that mass or church services are a disappearing Christmas tradition, while even fewer will go door-to-door carolling.

When it came to December 25th, half of all the adults polled said the day will be focused around food and chocolate in addition to the Christmas dinner.

Nearly a third also said they won't play traditional board games such as Charades or Pictionary, and four in ten won't watch The Queen's Christmas address.

Watching TV specials will take up most of the day, said over a third, whilst 17 per cent admitted that the kids will usually spend their time on tablets, phones and games consoles.

The research also showed that a mere six per cent will use Christmas time for activities such as ice-skating, carolling or visiting Santa's grotto - the same amount that use it for charity-work or volunteering.

Major Val Mylechreest for The Salvation Army, which commissioned the study, said: "Taking a step back from buys and wrapping gifts means we can really appreciate the time we have with family and friends at this time of year. But this time of year should also provide a reason to help others.

"Volunteering to support those who are less fortunate than us is an alternative way of spreading Christmas spirit that everyone can get involved in.

"It is a time to celebrate God's message of good will to all men. We can do this by reaching out to our community and helping those in need as well as focusing on family and friends."

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