As far as Bermudians are concerned, it’s the time of year for family.

The presence of loved ones — as well as their presents — came top of the Christmas wishes in a festive survey by Global Research.

Asked to select their perfect Christmas dinner guest from Bermuda’s past or present, about 48 per cent of people wanted to invite their family members or ancestors, with former premier Sir John Swan a long way behind in second place, with 9 per cent.

The late Johnny Barnes came next on 8 per cent, followed by David Burt, the Premier, on 5 per cent.

Other notable mentions on 3 per cent each — and a guarantee of a lively discussion around the dinner table — were former Progressive Labour Party leader Dame Lois Browne-Evans, union activist E.F. Gordon, former United Bermuda Party premier David Saul and the decidedly non-political gift-bearer Santa Claus.

It was a similar story when voters were asked to name the best Christmas gift they ever received.

The joint top answer was a visit from a loved one, on 12 per cent.

The same percentage also named a vacation as their best gift, followed by jewellery, on 11 per cent, and a new baby in the family on 10 per cent.

Technology like a computer, an Apple watch or an iPad also scored 10 per cent.

Asked to name their worst Christmas gift, the most popular response was bad clothing like tacky sweaters or tracksuits on 28 per cent.

Socks came next on 11 per cent, followed by household appliances on 9 per cent.

But anyone disappointed with Santa’s delivery this year should spare a thought for the 1 per cent who recalled their worst Christmas gift as an empty stocking and unsigned card.

Pollsters also asked residents to name their favourite Christmas movie.

Home Alone came top with 24 per cent, followed by How the Grinch Stole Christmas, on 14 per cent and Love Actually on 8 per cent.

The telephone poll of 404 registered voters took place between December 10 and 15 and has a margin of error of +/- 5 per cent.