It's a New Year night in for UK

The UK is set to shun bars and clubs this New Year's Eve with almost two thirds of the population (71 per cent) preferring to see the new year in at home, reveals the fifth Post Office Home Insurance New Year survey.

New Year's Eve continues to be a victim of the credit crunch with almost seven million adults (14 per cent) stating the recession has affected their plans.  Of these, eight in ten (80 per cent) said that lack of money has meant they can't do what they would like this year, rising to an astonishing 95 per cent of those in the South West.   After a year of tightening credit and job insecurity, the majority of adults would rather greet 2010 without the traditional ‘big night out'.

Whilst finances have certainly influenced many revellers' plans, almost a third (31 per cent) claimed that family members were the deciding factor, preferring to spend the night in with their loved ones instead. Only seven per cent claimed they would spend the night celebrating in a club or down the pub, so venues could face further financial woes with less revellers than ever going out this year.

Post Office Head of General Insurance, Richard Pennant-Jones, said: "With most clubs and bars charging over the odds for drinks and door entrance on New Year's Eve its not surprising so many of us prefer to stay in. Not only does this make for a cheaper night, but you also avoid the stress of finding a taxi home.

"For those who are staying in, Post Office Home Insurance is urging people to make sure they're covered if entertaining at home for any revelling mishaps that can occur.  Carpets, furniture, and home entertainment systems can be easily damaged and costly to repair or replace.  No one wants to start the New Year by paying out for post-party traumas!"

Post Office Home Insurance is increasing its contents cover by 10 per cent during December to ensure customers are fully protected over the festive period.  In addition, customers who buy their combined home buildings and contents insurance at a Post Office branch can now look forward to receiving a £25 winter fuel voucher 60 days after taking out a policy or claim a £25 cash payment.

For more information on Post Office Home Insurance, visit postoffice.co.uk or pop into your local branch.