How Do I Get Out Of The Christmas 'Do'?

[Treacle71]

They're arranging a Christmas night out in December at work. The email reads 'management want to thank us for our hard work this year', but we're to pay £35 for this 'thank you' ourselves.  They're not paying.  I can't afford £35 this Christmas, plus the venue is far from where I live.  It's also on a night I don't work; so I'd have to travel in on my day off.  I don't want to go. How can I get them to accept I pure and simply don't want to go? I only like my own friends to socialise with and I never socialise with people from work. Guy in the office doesn't seem to understand 'no' and is pushy.

[youngmafbog]

So long as you remember the lie when asked how it went the next day 😁

[vulcan42]

At least you know beforehand, we were invited to a Christmas lunch and afterwards the company secretary visited every table and demanded the cost of the meal.

[douglas9401]

Just tell them you're busy, dusting your iceberg.

[bluefortress]

Id be honest and just say you need all the money you can this year

[alidoc]

Explain you have an important prior family commitment , give no further explanation merely state that you hope everyone else has a wonderful time . 

[Maydup]

Thank you for organising the Christmas night out. Unfortunately I won't be able to attend but I wish you all a very enjoyable evening. Happy Christmas. 

[Treacle71]

Thank you people for your replies.  They helped a lot xx