THE festive season may be over, but new research shows that while almost 70 per cent of the UK workforce take holiday over Christmas, those who take time off may not feel so merry on their return.

According to research by workforce management company Manpower, two thirds (66 per cent) of British workers surveyed worry about how much work they will come back to when the festivities are over.

A Manpower spokesman said: "Switching off at Christmas is becoming very hard for many people.

"Those who do take holiday may dread returning to work, due to the increased workload they have to tackle.

"Unfortunately, this can counteract much of the benefit that might be gained from the holiday in the first place."

It seems that Santa was not the only one working hard over Christmas, as the research also reveals that 64 per cent of those surveyed were intending to take work home with them over the festive period.

The Manpower spokesman added: "Christmas can be a stressful time as it is, and people may find it even harder to relax if their minds are on work.

"If possible, you should try not to take work home with you and resist the temptation to check work e-mails.

"The Christmas break should have provided workers with a well-earned rest, giving people the chance to unwind and relax and return to work refreshed in the new year."