One in ten small business bosses are planning to shun presents for personal organisers this festive season by working on Christmas Day, a new survey has revealed.

The study, undertaken by Powergen, found that many snowed under small firms expect to work over Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve.

The traditional Christmas drink was frowned upon by 15 per cent of respondents because they might have to drive to work, while 11 per cent of bosses admitted to using work as an excuse not to see their family.

According to the research, companies in England were far less likely to close over Christmas than their Scottish counterparts, while male bosses were more than twice as likely to head for the workplace on December 25 than women.

Other key findings in the survey include:

  • More than a quarter of respondents kept their business mobile phones switched on in case they receive an important call.
  • Over 20 per cent have changed their festive plans because of work.
  • One in five has taken or made work-related calls.
  • Nearly one in eight checked business emails.
  • Almost one in five have ‘caught up’ on paperwork during Christmas Day.

As reported by Startups.co.uk, previous research has shown that many UK entrepreneurs put work over their family life to an unhealthy degree, putting relationships under potential strain.

British employees already work the longest hours in Europe, with most members of staff enjoying far less holiday time than their counterparts on the continent.

Neil Gould, small business manager of Powergen., said that the UK’s small firm bosses use enormous amounts of energy running their businesses.

“The Christmas period is a rare chance for us all to unwind and recharge our batteries.

“For many businesses it’s very difficult to stop at Christmas, but others really should take a little time out to renew their energy,” he said.