News agencies and the TV media broke with their normal transmissions to run a government annoncement that the public should not be unduly concerned by the mention of the birth of Jesus during their Christmas festivities.
There hadn't been a mention of it for many a year but one mention did inadvertantly get through and switchboards and the internet was awash with people on a rollercoaster of mixed emotions from shock to anger to utter bemusement.
"It's fairytale stuff and irrelevant," said the Bishop of Durham. "There's no need for this to be mentioned, especially at Christmas time."
Teenagers, who are particularly vulnerable, are mainly unaware who or what Jesus is.
"Jesus? Is he a member of One Direction? I can't say I've heard the name. Anyway do you mind giving me a little privacy. I don't normally talk to strangers while pissing on a memorial. Geesh! No respect, man."
Although Nick Clegg was in two minds the government have nevertheless acted quickly to allay fears.
"Statistically you're more likely to see Halley's comet than hear a mention of Jesus at Christmas and I don't expect you'll hear it again in our lifetime."