Is it just me? Or are people who don’t send Christmas cards just churlish? asks SAMANTHA BRICK

Every December, the Christmas countdown predictably kicks in on social media. We’re all used to the cake-making braggers and insufferable Elf-on-the-Shelfers.

But this year, there’s a new type of humble brag. With every click of my mouse, I come across yet another pious person banging on about why they aren’t sending any Christmas cards.

We all know the type of do-gooder. They’ve embraced technology with gusto and, at this time of year, are busy virtue-signalling their decision to donate to charity what they would have spent on cards.

These festive spoilsports love clucking about the environmental impact of sending and receiving cards. But what about the social impact of ignoring your dearest and not-necessarily nearest?

I do my bit to be green. When it comes to correspondence, I’ve gone almost paperless, sending emails or electronic payments.

But, with regards to Christmas cards, I’m not interested in the ecological arguments. For the past decade, I’ve personally designed, had printed and handwritten more than 50 cards to pop into the postbox each year.

I write them out over several wintry December evenings in front of the woodburner, with a glass of fizz to jolly me along.

Samantha says with regards to Christmas cards, she’s not interested in the ecological arguments (stock image)

I personalise each one as I care about the people who will turn the envelope over and open those cards before reading the message inside.

I know many who have lost a loved one this year. Carefully chosen words about the past and the future let them know someone is thinking of them.

Those bragging about donating to charity could probably afford to do both. So, each time I see their posts, I know I’ve got one less card to send.