Transport costs mean four in 10 'will shun Christmas festivities'

MORE THAN four in 10 people will not see as many friends and family as they’d like to this Christmas because of the cost or availability of transport.

According to research from breakdown service Green Flag, 23% of people will cut back on journeys because of the cost of fuel.

A further 16% will shun social visits because of limited public transport availability, and a separate 17% will fall short on Christmas visits because of the cost of public transport.

The 43% total equates to 22 million people who won’t see everyone they want to this festive season.

Within the research Green Flag found that the average fuel spend on visiting family and friends was predicted to be £44, with around three hours of travelling time.

Just over one in eight people (13%) are planning to spend more than £80 on fuel, while almost one in seven (14%) will spend more than five hours travelling.

Mike Bowman, Director of Green Flag, said: “Christmas is traditionally a time for seeing friends and family, but the high cost of driving and public transport will keep some loved ones apart this year.

“Many families will be faced with the tough choice of whether to spend their Christmas budget on presents and entertainment or travel.”

By Press Association reporter