.jpg)
One in ten people will "throw a sickie" to do their Christmas shopping, according to a survey.
The research, carried out by MSN, shows people who work in tourism and leisure are 20 per cent more likely to take a day off for the purpose than anyone else.
The results also show that fake cases of "man-flu" are highly likely, as men are 67 per cent more inclined to have time off than women.
Finance journalist Emma-Lou Montgomery says she wouldn't "throw a sickie" in the Isle of Man for fear of being seen (play attached audio file):
(Picture: Christmas shoppers in Strand Street, Douglas earlier this month).

Department brands loss of Greeba tree 'regrettable'
Inmates stage prison protest over time spent in cells
Local clothing retailers rated poorly in new survey
'Unnecessary' delays left electricity customer in limbo