A Sunderland company is beating the Covid-19 restrictions so people can have their whole family round for Christmas - by making lifesize cardboard cut-outs of loved ones.
'Where The Trade Buys', an upload and print platform, has unveiled its festive range of relatives called 'sit-ees' so missing family members can join you for Christmas dinner.
The 'sit-ees', which cost around £30, can be packed away and brought out for any special occasion helping solve the dilemma of who to invite for Christmas dinner.
They can also be a surprise gift for anybody keen to escape their in-laws this festive season.
Tougher lockdown rules were brought into force in the North East from Wednesday, September 30 as coronavirus cases in the region continued to rise.
The rules banned households from mixing in any ‘indoor setting’ and are in place in Newcastle, Gateshead, Northumberland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Sunderland, and County Durham.
Gary Peeling, CEO of Precision Printing, who employs 160 people in Sunderland and London, also owns Where The Trade Buys and believes the sit-ees will provide some much-needed fun.
He said: "It has been a very tough year for everyone and the fact that people may not be able to have their usual family gathering this Christmas is obviously quite upsetting.
"While we know these are no substitute for a loved one being there in person, we think they will definitely be a great talking point, along with offering some great photo opportunities."
The 'sit-ees' are part of Where The Trade Buys’ Christmas collection which includes bespoke wrapping paper, Christmas cards, calendars and gift tags.
The entire Christmas range is available to buy online.
