FIFERS are willing to forgo presents in place of feasting this year – with nearly half preferring to cut back on presents according to new research.

The survey from Make it Scotch said 45 per cent of those living in the Kingdom would prefer to cut back on presents compared to just 14 per cent who are open to cutting back on the amount spent on Christmas dinner and food.

With the cost-of-living crisis taking grip, 1,000 Scots were quizzed on their attitude towards the festive season.

In Fife, results highlighted that almost all (94 per cent) rated festive food as an important part of the festive season while a third (34 per cent) of people said gifts weren’t important at all.

Out of all Scotland’s regions, Fife was the least open to cutting the amount spent on Christmas food (14 per cent), preferring to reduce the money spent on decorations (39 per cent) or the number of people they will buy for (26 per cent).

Gatherings were also important to people in Fife this year, with more than half (56 per cent) stating that they are most looking forward to time with family. While one in five (18 per cent) are looking forward to festive eating with four in five (80 per cent) stating that Christmas dinner was their favourite eating occasion.

In comparison, only seven per cent are most looking forward to gifts, even lagging watching Christmas movies (nine per cent) – with nearly half (45 per cent) open to cutting back on the amount they spend on presents.

In general, almost all Scots – a total of 94 per cent asked – rate festive food as an important part of the season with nearly a quarter (22 per cent) looking forward to Christmas food the most.

However, people are most looking forward to quality family time with more than half (50 per cent) looking forward to spending time with loved ones over the festive period.

Lesley Cameron, Marketing and Communications Director at Quality Meat Scotland, said: “Recent months have been incredibly difficult for people across the country, and many have had to make the hard decision to rein in Christmas spending.

“Our research highlights that people cherish family time and occasions where they can come together and connect, which is the real spirit of Christmas. They would rather reduce the amount of gifts they buy or the number of people they buy for in order to safeguard gatherings.

“When it comes to Christmas food, there are simple savings that can be made too. With the potential Turkey shortage, Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb and Specially Selected Pork are great alternatives that can bring something different to the table and with a wide variety of cuts available there’s something to suit every budget.”