Billions spent on credit cards in Xmas shopping spree

A large proportion of the money already spent by Brits on Christmas has been funded by credit cards, it has been revealed.

Research from Sainsbury’s Cards has found that an estimated 26 per cent of items bought in preparation for the festive period were paid for with plastic.

This translates to £1.66 billion of the £6.29 billion total that people in the UK have spent preparing themselves for Yuletide.

Donald MacLeod, head of Sainsbury’s Cards, commented: "Christmas is one of the most expensive times of the year so it’s encouraging to see that a large number of shoppers are spreading the cost.

"With so many outgoings it makes sense to look for a credit card that gives you something back in return, people using cards this festive season should check that their spend is being rewarded."

The study found that the average amount spent on Christmas is £132.42.