Friday is the last 'acceptable' day in December to dump someone, survey says

Time is running out to break up with someone before Christmas if you are unhappy in a relationship, according to a survey.

This Friday is said to be the last time it is acceptable to end a relationship ahead of the festive break.

When 2,643 people - some in relationships, some not - were asked by Hillarys about their current and previous relationships, 27 per cent said they axed their ex during December.

December can be a stressful month, with arguments about presents and who to spend the holiday among the reasons that relationships were put under strain.

Of those asked, 57 per cent said they ended their relationships in December because the "spark had gone".

Concerns about their partner cheating made 44 per cent of people call it quits.

And 26 per cent said it was because they had issues with their other half's living habits.

Four per cent of people said they wanted to be single at Christmas.

Other issues included money and the general stress of Christmas.

One per cent of people admitting they had caused the separation to avoid buying their partner a Christmas present.

Most of those polled said December 6 - this Friday - was the cut-off point.

After that is considered too harsh. Thirsty-two per cent of those who agreed said they would wait until January to dump their date.

Lucy Askew, a spokesperson for Hillarys.co.uk said: "You would think that December would be the most popular time of year for couples to get together, but this research reveals quite the opposite.

"You've only got a few days left if you want to make that dreaded decision, but it is best to do it now to at least give them time to feel better before Christmas comes.

"You wouldn't want to be responsible for ruining the most wonderful time of the year for someone by splitting up right beforehand."

Read more

Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart ‘to appear on I’m A Celebrity'

A guide to this season’s party politics

Don't miss The Irishman: available on Netflix now

Best Christmas candles 2019: the 16 best festive fragrances to buy now