BRITONS are set to collectively spend £13 billion on their credit cards this Christmas, but it will take them 12 weeks to pay off the debt, research claims.

Shoppers are set to spend an average of £543 each on their credit cards during the festive season, according to Virgin Money.

Gifts will be the single biggest expense, with people spending an average of £215 on presents and cards, followed by food and drink at £127.

Socialising will account for a further £96, while £43 will go on travel, £35 on a new outfit and an average of £27 will be spent on a Christmas tree and decorations.