A vicar is urging parents not to worry about buying children expensive presents this Christmas and instead spend time with them.

Last month, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby said increased financial pressure in the build-up to Christmas "spoils life" for families across the UK.

Rev Javaid Iqbal, team rector of Aldenham, Radlett and Shenley and vicar of Radlett, said: "Giving presents is fine because it is sharing God’s blessings with others at the festival of Christmas but we should remember that Christmas is Christ’s birthday and he should be the focus of our attention. We should be asking ourselves what can we give him along with the shepherds and the Magi.

"Obeying Christ’s teaching we should remember those who are less fortunate, the hungry, the homeless and the lonely."