What we really want

Secret Santas need not risk offending somebody or spend too much energy deliberating over a gift, as new research has revealed what the nation really wants for Christmas.

A survey of 1,000 UK adults carried out by e-tailer Christmas Tree World revealed the top 10 secret Santa gifts that Brits would like to receive – and found gift cards topped the poll with more than a quarter (26%) of the vote.

The tradition sees gifts exchanged anonymously amongst a group of friends, family or colleagues. However, more than one in five respondents said they struggle to find Secret Santa gifts, seven per cent even said they have been offended by a Secret Santa gift they have received, while one in 10 have been embarrassed.

In second place was a food gift such as chocolate or a cheeseboard which secured 23% of the votes, followed closely by alcohol which came in third (21%).

Gifts for the home were also a popular choice, as 16% said would like to receive a candle for Secret Santa, while the same number would enjoy opening a novelty gift such as a stress ball or a game.

Fourteen per cent would like to unwrap a book and grooming products and cosmetics secured 12% of the vote. Stationery came in eighth place (11%), and surprisingly one in 10 would like to receive socks from their Secret Santa. DVDS rounded off the top 10 (10%).

Despite these findings, more than one in three grateful Brits say they don’t mind what they receive for Secret Santa as it’s the thought that counts.

Top 10 secret Santa gifts: 1. Gift card – 26%. 2. A food item – 23%. 3. Alcohol – 21%. 4. Candle – 16%. 5. Novelty gift eg stress ball or game – 16%. 6. Book – 14%. 7. Cosmetic and grooming item– 12%. 8. Stationery - 11%. 9. Socks – 11%. 10. DVD – 10%.