Whilst it is barely believable that we are facing Christmas again already, the usual problems are likely to crop up around the Christmas period, namely too much alcohol and festive related unauthorised absence.

Employers should ensure that all their workers are aware of when they are required to attend for work and that question will be asked if they do not, particularly between Christmas and New Year.

Having said that Christmas is of course a time for an employer to reward its staff and relax the rules somewhat.

Employees also have a responsibility to behave responsibly, particularly regarding alcohol consumption at the Christmas party.

As with all employment law issues, if both sides play fair there shouldn't be a problem - of course if this happened in practice I for one would be out of work!!!

May I take this opportunity to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a happy, prosperous and litigation free New Year!