It’s supposed to be the most romantic day of the year, but Valentine’s Day falls in what could be one of the most lovelorn months of the year. 

A new study into breakups found that one in four of us has had a relationship end at some point in January, leaving a trail of broken hearts just at that time of year when we’re all supposed to be shopping for love hearts and booking romantic getaways.

The reason for this phenomenon? Well it seems that Brits spend many months in a relationship that’s passed its expiry date, simply because they don’t want to break someone’s heart (or find themselves alone) before or over Christmas. In fact, nearly half said they’ve been in a relationship they no longer wanted to be in, but felt compelled to stay for the wrong reasons.

As well as not wanting to face Christmas without a partner, other reasons include: an upcoming birthday, Valentine’s Day itself, a pre-planned holiday, or New Year’s Eve.

There are other, more emotional reasons for holding onto a dying relationship however. ‘To avoid hurting someone’s feelings,’ was in fact the top answer given, while ‘a fear of being alone’ is also a significant factor.