Seven in 10 Brits are most looking forward to spending time with loved ones this Christmas

And as a result, one in six (16 percent) admit they leave their festive shopping to the last minute – with 15 percent even missing out on festive get-togethers because of this.

However, spending time with family, and the festive food, topped the list of what adults are most looking forward to on the big day this year, following two years of Christmas celebrations disrupted by coronavirus restrictions.

In fact, present-giving through Secret Santa ranked as one of the lowest activities they are excited to do.

The research was commissioned by Aperol, to mark the launch of its “Spritzmas” cards, which are designed to encourage the gift of reconnection – with an e-code to get two free drinks at All Bar One bars nationwide in the New Year, with all proceeds going to hospitality charity “The Drinks Trust”.

Loris Contro, Campari Group UK Italian Icons brand ambassador, said: “Coming together with friends and family is what Christmas is all about – spending time with each other is a gift.

“And while the festive season is a swirl of social events, we know that the sheer volume of pre-planned arrangements and last-minute admin can be overwhelming.”

The research also put a spotlight on the fact that the most important gift this Christmas is presence, as more than half (55 percent) plan to do more catching-up with loved ones than previous years.

And nearly a fifth (19 percent) say they would most want to be gifted with an experience to enjoy with a loved one this year.

When it comes to sending cards, more than a quarter (27 percent) say they would rather receive a card with a meaningful message than a material gift.

And three-quarters (74 percent) of those who said so believe it’s a nice way to let someone know they’re being thought of.

Loris Contro added: “With reconnecting with loved ones so high on the agenda this Christmas, we want everyone to reclaim a little bit of spontaneity throughout the festive period, and enjoy some quality time together.

“That’s why we launched our initiative to help bring people together over their favourite tipple, all while helping the hospitality industry.”