Rotherham families splashing out for Christmas

We asked how much readers intended to spend on Christmas this yaer and 39% said they would be splashing out more than £500.

Most of those who responded, 52.1%, said they were spending between £100 and £500 and the rest said they would be spending up to £100.

Our results are backed up with a national survey by the HSBC bank revealing that the average British person is set to spend £526 on Christmas — £347 on presents and the rest on food and drink.

But Paul Moorhead, of  Rotherham insolvency practice Moorhead Savage, says heavy Christmas spending is often the last straw for families facing tough times in the recession and he is launching a special helpline to help people cope.

"Don't let bills ruin the season because there are things you can do to help ease the situation and the first is simply to seek professional advice," he said.

"Our debt helpline is open all the way through Christmas and the New Year on 01709 331 300 to ensure that people start the New Year with some hope for the future.”

Tonnes of tinsel: Meadowhall's Christmas in numbers.

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