Shoppers plan Xmas drinks cutbacks

Cash-strapped shoppers are cutting beer and wine from their Christmas lists as they prepare for a recession-hit festive season.

Twelve per cent of shoppers are considering striking beer and wine from their shopping lists altogether, a poll by Somerfield has revealed.

The survey found that Brits are cutting their festive spending by £2.8 billion – or up to £200 each – this year, with 33% saying they will spend less than they ever have before.

Eighteen per cent said they would cut secret santa gifts for colleagues and 13% said they would not buy Christmas sweets.

Pete Williams, Somerfield's head of press and PR, said: "The recession has

hit Britain hard and fast – it looks like many people will be tightening

their belts this Christmas."