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One in eight adults have shopped for Christmas presents and food earlier than usual this year, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). 

In the past fortnight 12 percent of the almost 5,000 adults surveyed said they have bought items they would usually purchase closer to the festive break.

A further three percent said they have pre-ordered items they would usually leave until later.

The most common items bought or pre-ordered early are food (47 per cent), toys (44 percent) and clothes, shoes or accessories (33 percent).

The majority of those polled - 86 percent - said they have not bought or pre-ordered any items earlier than normal.

The ONS analysed responses from 4,397 people between October 20 and 31 as part of its Opinions and Lifestyle Survey.

In the past fortnight 12 percent of the almost 5,000 adults surveyed said they have bought items they would usually purchase closer to the festive break (file image)

It also found that 43 percent of adults continued to experience shortages when shopping in the past two weeks - down from 53 percent in the previous survey period.

Some 17 percent said they had been unable to buy essential food because it was not available, up from 16 percent, while 18 percent were unable to buy fuel (down from 37 percent).

It also found that 43 percent of adults continued to experience shortages when shopping in the past two weeks - down from 53 percent in the previous survey period (file image)

Around two-thirds (65 percent) said they experienced differences when food shopping compared with normal, such as less variety and items not being available.

Overall, 57 percent of people said everything they needed to buy while shopping had been available, up from 47 percent. 

It follows a period of instability for British shoppers as the country faced a fuel and supply chain crisis in recent months.