Millions of fogeys could also be pressured to promote their children’ toys to afford Christmas this 12 months

One in 10 parents could be facing the heartbreaking decision to sell their children’s belongings to cope with costs this Christmas.

An estimated 5.5 million mums and dads might have to auction off their kids’ gear to cover festive expenses.

It seems that 30% of families are feeling the festive financial squeeze even more this year, according to a recent study.

Findings from a poll of 2,000 shoppers highlights utility bills and tax hikes as reasons for stretched budgets. While an overwhelming 75% simply reckon ‘everything is more expensive’.

Even though 25% of parents plan on trimming down their spend on children’s gifts, they’re still expected to have £343 worth of debt, with only half optimistic they’ll pay it off by June.

As a result, some parents may resort to selling their belongings on second-hand websites to make some extra cash.

Items hitting the second-hand market range from clothes, gaming consoles, smartphones as well as children’s toys.

The trend has been spotted by Gumtree, which commissioned the research, noticing a bump in the selling of pre-owned goods.

Hannah Rouch, consumer expert at the online seller, remarked: “We know that the reality for millions of families is that there is a very real pressure on finances and budgets over winter and the festive period.”

Baby toys listings have shot up by 5%, while nursery furniture posts have surged a hefty 15%. Listing for ‘women’s jackets’ and ‘kid’s jackets’ have also seen a rise of 12% and 8% respectively.

Gym equipment has also experienced a 6% increase in listings as Brits rummage through their homes to sell items they don’t regularly use.

“Our latest research indicates that people are selling goods to make ends meet, and we fear that the Government’s announcements aren’t sufficient to assist working families,” she adds.

“We urge the Government and decision-makers to seriously contemplate how to better support parents and children this winter.”

“While our aim is to assist people in selling their goods and finding cheaper alternatives, we’re also providing resources for families who are struggling.”