LONDON, Dec. 11 (Xinhua) -- British grandfathers will receive 4 percent fewer presents than family pets do this year, according to a new research by Britain's Barclays Bank.

The research, after surveying 2000 British adults who celebrate Christmas, suggested that while the number of presents for family pets will reach 1.91, that number for grandfathers will only reach an expected 1.84.

"Over a third (34 percent) of pet owners admitted they will splash out on Christmas presents for their furry friends, compared to 11 percent saying they will be buying for grandparents," the research said.

The eldest child will be the most spoiled in the family, as they will receive an average of 5.45 presents, the research said. The youngest child, the middle child, the partner, granddaughters are ranked second to fifth on the list.

The research also showed that "the average Brit will purchase 27 presents for their family and friends, typically spending 37 pounds (around 46.5 U.S. dollars) per gift," which means that Brits will spend a total of 17 billion pounds (around 21.4 billion U.S. dollars) on presents this Christmas.

Top five worst presents to receive at Christmas are batteries, underwear, socks, a tie and soap, the research said, adding that "nearly a quarter (24 percent) of Brits have returned an unwanted gift."