It is six weeks until Christmas and many businesses are already getting into the festive mood.

Business Argus has been asking the local business community what they have planned in terms of a festive treat for their staff.

Ed Gooderham, Green & Co, Cwmbran

We always hold a Christmas party for our staff, because we like to reward them for their hard work throughout the year, especially since December is a notoriously busy month in the accountancy world. Not only that, but it's a great way for the whole firm to come together, relax and enjoy each other's company outside of work - we always find it's good for team spirit. As accountants and tax advisors, we can't miss the opportunity to remind businesses that HMRC has a festive loophole which means businesses pay no tax on corporate Christmas parties as long as the cost per head does not exceed £150 (including VAT). This figure can include the cost of transport and overnight accommodation if these are provided to enable employees to attend. What's more, as long as the cost per head stays under the limit, employees can bring their significant others along! A word of caution, however, as if you spend as much as one penny over this limit, you will be liable for income tax and National insurance on the whole amount. This is a rare gift from the taxman, so we recommend you take advantage of it and throw your employees a party.

Luke Welsh, head of Employment Law, Howells Solicitors, Newport

We always have a Christmas party as we find that it's a great way to boost the morale of the staff and is a token of our gratitude for their hard work throughout the year. This year has been a bit of a logistical nightmare to arrange as we now have six offices across South Wales, but we have arranged minibuses for all of our staff. From an employment law perspective, it's still important that employers consider the duty of care they own towards their employees, even though they are not in work, especially if there's alcohol involved. I personally shall be raising a tipple (or two) at our Christmas party and I'll be showing off my dance moves which would put even John Travolta to shame.

John Newell, managing director, Kingston Newell Estate Agents, Newport

I think it’s important to say thank you to the team, especially when the company has had a very successful year. Plans are still being made for this year’s soiree but we will be doing something and will also keep it local. I’m also chairman of the Dragons of Newport Networking Club, which are a group of local businesses, and we will be heading to The Ridgeway Bar & Kitchen on the December 5 for our festive celebrations. Last year’s event started at lunchtime and certain members (I wont name them!) were still going and in fine voice in the small hours!