Online retailers are preparing for the biggest night of the year on December 3rd, with millions of Brits expected to take to the internet to purchase gifts for their loved ones.

The first Monday of December has become known as Cyber Monday when there has traditionally been a spike in sales.

Orders are expected to peak between 20:00 GMT and 21:00 GMT, with people taking to their computers when they return from work.

Many individuals will have received their final paycheck before Christmas today (November 30th) and plan to take advantage of being able to order gifts such as luxury hampers from the comfort of their home.

This year, online shopping is expected to break all previous records with £222,222 spent every minute, with orders peaking at 21:20 GMT.

Managing director of Amazon.co.uk Christopher North commented: "As people increasingly shop on mobile devices and benefit from fast broadband at home, we’re seeing a move towards customers buying their Christmas gifts later in the evening when they are at home relaxing."