Family gatherings at Christmas can be made “relatively safe” if coronavirus cases are brought under control with stringent restrictions, a Government scientific adviser has said.

Professor John Edmunds, a member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage), made the comments as the Government considers imposing a national lockdown next week.

But how do you celebrate in a Covid-safe manner?

Christmas might look a bit different this year but that's no reason to give up. All you have to do is get creative: What's most important to you?

What do you enjoy most about Christmas?

If it's decorations then it's good news - there's nothing to stop you pulling out the baubles and tinsel to deck out your home.

Experts say familiar things are comforting at a time like this - so give your house a Christmas make-over.

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Do your shopping early

If there is a national lockdown millions more people will be making their purchases online this year so get your orders in early to avoid postage delays.

Check Amazon deadlines to make sure you haven't left it too late.

Make your own gifts and decorations

If you have young kids then you're bound to have coloured paper, glitter and glue somewhere in the house.

Get all that crafting stuff out and make your own cards and gifts with your children.

A gift that's hand-made is always appreciated more by mums, dads, grans and granddads than something bought in a shop or online (even if the writing is a bit winky!)

Take a look in the garden

How about decorating a tree or some larger plants in your garden for an extra dash of Christmas spirit? If you live in a flat you can decotrate a house plant.

Arrange to meet up with family and friends virtually

We don't know if the Government will relax restrictions to allow us to get together in person so, in the run up to the big day, keep in touch via Zoom or Microsoft Teams.

Make it a family time - get the kids involved (they probably know how to use Zoom better than you do) - and try to make things warm and cosy.

How about catching up with friends or relatives in other countries.

A video call can feel special if you are hooking up with someone you haven't seen in ages.

Spoil yourself

Don't be miserable this Christmas. If you can afford to splash out a bit order in some of your favourite food and be kind to each other. You might not be able to have a big get-together but an intimate Christmas with just your closest family can be magical too.