Christmas is now less than two weeks away (Image: Getty/Yana Iskayeva)

People across the UK are predicted to indulge in a late rush of festive spending, with an estimated £24.6 billion set to be spent on gifts and celebrations this year. Despite the financial strain many are experiencing, accountants PwC anticipate that the Christmas shopping spree will exceed last year's by 3.5%.

They predict the average UK adult will spend some £461 - up from £449 last year. This is welcome news for retailers and Chancellor Rachel Reeves, especially given the economic uncertainty and wavering consumer confidence prior to her Budget announcement.

There were concerns that the unusually late timing of the Budget would negatively impact high street sales, a worry seemingly confirmed by the mixed res

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