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Scottish Sun
03-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
Brits spend more than 16 HOURS waiting for late pals every year, research reveals
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) BRITS spend more than 16 hours a year waiting for late mates to arrive at social events. The study of 2,000 adults found 75 per cent have a friend who is 'always' late – with 20 per cent having to wait an hour or more beyond their agreed meet time for a pal, a study has shown. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Vodafone's study found that 75 per cent of people have a friend who's always late Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 2 Roman Kemp says that he doesn't mind when pals are late Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep Although they'll typically chase them up after 19 minutes to get an estimated time of arrival. While 60 per cent say summer is their favourite time to socialise, and many (20 per cent) feel closest to friends during this season, it also means more time spent waiting. But 39 per cent will kill time waiting for their mate to eventually arrive by looking at their phones - scrolling through social media (42 per cent), catching up on news (30 per cent), and checking emails (27 per cent). As a result, 45 per cent admitted they've drained their phone battery while waiting for their pals to arrive. To help, Vodafone - which commissioned the research - has unveiled gigantic 'Wait for a Mate' stations across the nation, so people have a comfy place to hole up and recharge their phones while they await their friends this summer. Broadcaster Roman Kemp, testing the seat out in central London, said: 'With my mates, I'm definitely the early bird. 'I find I can use the time to catch up on a bit of life admin - aka check the football scores.' The most popular message sent by 35 per cent of those waiting is 'where are you?'. While 17 per cent go for the friendly approach of 'Can't wait to see you!', 16 per cent are much more assertive and send a simple 'hurry up'. When waiting for their friend, 61 per cent hunt for a cozy place to sit and 10 per cent search for a place to charge their phone. Brits will always have mobile phone & internet signal at home after tech breakthrough that beats Elon Musk's Starlink But tardy mates aren't always to blame as 28 per cent said they deliberately turn up early – with 57 per cent doing so to make sure they can find the meeting spot on time and one in 10 (12 per cent) simply too excited to see friends. One in 10 of those polled, via OnePoll, even use the opportunity of arriving early to get their life admin in order by paying bills or replying to emails. The news comes after it was revealed that most Brits meet their best friend at the age of 19. The study, carried out by Nutella, found that 37 per cent of people found their best friend at school. Over 2000 Brits were surveyed for the study and 67 per cent said that trust was the most important value for pals to share.


The Irish Sun
03-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
Brits spend more than 16 HOURS waiting for late pals every year, research reveals
BRITS spend more than 16 hours a year waiting for late mates to arrive at social events. The study of 2,000 adults found 75 per cent have a friend who is 2 Vodafone's study found that 75 per cent of people have a friend who's always late Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 2 Roman Kemp says that he doesn't mind when pals are late Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep Although they'll typically chase them up after 19 minutes to get an estimated time of arrival. While 60 per cent say But 39 per cent will kill time waiting for their mate to eventually arrive by looking at their phones - scrolling through social media (42 per cent), catching up on news (30 per cent), and checking emails (27 per cent). As a result, 45 per cent admitted they've drained their phone battery while waiting for their pals to arrive. To help, Broadcaster 'I find I can use the time to catch up on a bit of life admin - aka check the football scores.' The most popular message sent by 35 per cent of those waiting is 'where are you?'. Most read in The Sun While 17 per cent go for the friendly approach of 'Can't wait to see you!', 16 per cent are much more assertive and send a simple 'hurry up'. When waiting for their friend, 61 per cent hunt for a cozy place to sit and 10 per cent search for a place to charge their phone. Brits will always have mobile phone & internet signal at home after tech breakthrough that beats Elon Musk's Starlink But tardy One in 10 of those polled, via OnePoll, even use the opportunity of arriving early to get their life admin in order by paying bills or replying to emails. The news comes after it was revealed that most Brits The study, carried out by Over 2000 Brits were surveyed for the study and 67 per cent said that trust was the most important value for pals to share.


Scottish Sun
18-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
Three-course dinner parties are falling out of fashion with Brit hosts turning to alternatives
Plus the best gifts to bring to a dinner party FEAST ON THAT Three-course dinner parties are falling out of fashion with Brit hosts turning to alternatives Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A SURVEY has found that Brits are moving away from traditional three-course dinner parties in favour of more laid-back alternatives. The traditional three-course dinner party is falling out of fashion as hosts turn to grazing boards, build-your-own desserts, and carefully curated drinks. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Grazing boards are becoming a popular alternative to the three-course dinner party Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 3 Matilda Bea loves using personalised touches to make guests feel special Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 3 Cawston Press has launched its new sparkling can multipacks Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep A poll of 1,000 adults who've hosted such an event found grazing boards are used by 27 per cent, while 10 per cent like to include fun 'interactive elements' like build-your-own puddings. And 10 per cent make a point of using sustainable products so guests can dine with a clear conscience. While a quarter (27 per cent) ensure their setup is picture-perfect, specifically so it looks good on social media. As many as 80 per cent feel pressure to make their gatherings stand out, whether through beautifully plated dishes, creative décor, or signature mocktails. Known for her creative hosting flair, Matilda Bea has teamed up with Cawston Press to share her go-to tips for elevating dinner parties, picnics, and BBQs this summer. She said: 'I always try to add a personal and playful touch to my gatherings - whether that's through handmade menus, thoughtful place cards, or even personalised cocktails to make guests feel extra special. 'These days, I find that it's about so much more than just the food. It's the atmosphere, the details, and those great conversations around the table that really make a moment catching up with friends and family so memorable.' The study went on to find 36 per cent of respondents would rather head to a casual gathering, such as one centred around a specific theme like an 80s night. And more than a tenth (11 per cent) will spend upwards of eight hours – longer than a working day – planning their own soirees. More than half (55 per cent) consider cooking themselves a key part of the process, but 31 per cent are happy to mix this up with ordering a few bits in. Ruth Langsford accused of 'rage baiting' as she reveals her VERY odd 'secret ingredient' while prepping famous spag bol Fewer than one in 10 (eight per cent) will send out a formal invitation, either printed or digital – preferring to simply send a text (73 per cent). But 42 per cent rarely or never risk trying a new recipe when hosting a dinner party, sticking to the tried and true. Dinner parties are also getting an eco-boost, with 56 per cent saying sustainability is important to them when hosting one. And when invited to someone else's event, 77 per cent will bring a bottle of wine to say thanks – while 42 per cent opt for flowers, and 36 per cent a box of chocolates. While 11 per cent will bring some mixers or soft drinks to help get the party going, according to the data. Managing director Steve Kearns at Cawston Press, which commissioned the research to celebrate its new Sparkling Can Multipacks, designed to help hosts elevate their at-home gatherings, said: 'People are putting more thought than ever into their dinner parties. 'Many people - especially those who are younger - rarely eat a meal out without taking a photo, so the mise-en-scène has to be as spot-on as the food on the plate. 'And now, just as importantly, it should reflect the growing desire for more sustainable choices at the table.'


The Irish Sun
18-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Irish Sun
Three-course dinner parties are falling out of fashion with Brit hosts turning to alternatives
A SURVEY has found that Brits are moving away from traditional three-course dinner parties in favour of more laid-back alternatives. The traditional three-course dinner party is falling out of fashion as hosts turn to grazing boards, build-your-own desserts, and carefully curated drinks. Advertisement 3 Grazing boards are becoming a popular alternative to the three-course dinner party Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 3 Matilda Bea loves using personalised touches to make guests feel special Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 3 Cawston Press has launched its new sparkling can multipacks Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep A poll of 1,000 adults who've hosted such an event found And 10 per cent make a point of using sustainable products so guests can dine with a clear conscience. While a quarter (27 per cent) ensure their setup is picture-perfect, specifically so it looks good on social media. As many as 80 per cent feel pressure to make their gatherings stand out, whether through beautifully plated dishes, creative décor, or signature mocktails. Advertisement Read more News Known for her creative hosting flair, Matilda Bea has teamed up with Cawston Press to share her go-to tips for elevating dinner parties, picnics, and BBQs this summer. She said: 'I always try to add a personal and playful touch to my gatherings - whether that's through handmade menus, thoughtful place cards, or even personalised cocktails to make guests feel extra special. 'These days, I find that it's about so much more than just the food. It's the atmosphere, the details, and those great conversations around the table that really make a moment catching up with friends and family so memorable.' The study went on to find 36 per cent of respondents would rather head to a casual gathering, such as one centred around a specific theme like an 80s night. Advertisement Most read in The Sun And more than a tenth (11 per cent) will spend upwards of eight hours – longer than a working day – planning their More than half (55 per cent) consider cooking themselves a key part of the process, but 31 per cent are happy to mix this up with ordering a few bits in. Ruth Langsford accused of 'rage baiting' as she reveals her VERY odd 'secret ingredient' while prepping famous spag bol Fewer than one in 10 (eight per cent) will send out a formal invitation, either printed or digital – preferring to simply send a text (73 per cent). But 42 per cent rarely or never risk trying a Advertisement Dinner parties are also getting an eco-boost, with 56 per cent saying sustainability is important to them when hosting one. And when invited to someone else's event, 77 per cent will bring a bottle of wine to say thanks – while 42 per cent opt for flowers, and 36 per cent a box of chocolates. While 11 per cent will bring some mixers or soft drinks to help get the party going, according to the data. Managing director Steve Kearns at Cawston Press, which commissioned the research to celebrate its new Sparkling Can Multipacks, designed to help hosts elevate their at-home gatherings, said: 'People are putting more thought than ever into their dinner parties. Advertisement 'Many people - especially those who are younger - rarely eat a meal out without taking a photo, so the mise-en-scène has to be as spot-on as the food on the plate. 'And now, just as importantly, it should reflect the growing desire for more sustainable choices at the table.' Matilda Bea's tips and tricks for hosting DIY cocktails and mocktails - I always make sure there's something for everyone. A DIY cocktail station is a favourite of mine. I've even turned my sink into a makeshift bar, filled with ice - it's a fun photo moment and adds to the 'occasion'. Nibbles station - If food isn't the star of the show, I love setting up a drinks and nibbles station - a grazing table on a coffee table or ottoman works wonders. Tablescaping - A well-styled tablescape is key for me. I love mixing materials for my tablescape - soft linens, colourful table mats, and ceramic serve ware layered together to create a personal and beautiful dining experience. Personal touches - Whether it's personalised place names, hand-painted stationery, or bespoke gift bags, thoughtful details add a personal touch and make your guests feel truly special. Handmade menus or personalised gift bags can be budget-friendly, yet instantly set the tone and create a unique, memorable experience Give your dinner party a theme - a theme adds a whole new layer of fun to the evening. Whether it's centred around a drink of the evening, the cuisine you're serving, or a seasonal touch, a theme helps set the tone and gives your guests something to vibe with. It's the little details that tie everything together Interaction experiences - A dinner party is the perfect opportunity to get everyone involved. I love creating interactive activities like DIY cocktail bars or pizza-making to keep guests engaged and create an easygoing, fun vibe.


Scottish Sun
25-05-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Britain's favourite car games revealed according to survey – is yours on the list?
Keep reading for the full ranking below CAR BLIMEY Britain's favourite car games revealed according to survey – is yours on the list? Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A POLL has revealed the most popular 'car games' among Britons, with I-spy coming out on top. I-Spy, 'First one to see' and Yellow Car are among the nation's most popular 'car games', according to research. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Research found I-spy was the most popular car game Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep 3 Yellow Car was Britain's fourth favourite car game according to the poll Credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep A poll of 2,000 adults found 88 per cent will indulge in a time-killing challenge when on a road trip. Spotting car brands and various license plates also proved popular. Other games to feature in the top 20 include the Alphabet Game, when you have to think of a word in a certain category beginning with each letter and the classic Rock Paper Scissors. Name That Tune, Would You Rather and even Truth or Dare are also popular. It comes after Londoners playing 'Yellow Car' would have found themselves racking up the points, after images captured five new Renault 5 E-Tech Electric vehicles buzzing around the capital's most famous landmarks. The fleet were all designed in the French carmaker's iconic yellow pop colourway, making them stand out from the crowd. The swarm of five in-sync cars drove past London sights including The Mall and past Big Ben. A spokesperson from the automotive brand, which also commissioned the research, said: "The nation will be taking to the roads this Bank Holiday weekend and I'm sure many will be playing at least one of these classic car games. 'While I-Spy might still be the most popular, Yellow Car is one that many will be familiar with. 'Trying to spot a brightly coloured car while on the road can keep adults and children alike entertained and can help make any car journey go that little bit quicker. New Renault 4 is no longer a cheap, simple no frills runabout - it's now a funky family crossover and a capital B bargain 'So, having launched Renault 5 with the option of vibrant, fun colours, we wanted to play a real-life version of the Yellow Car game on the streets of London, so anyone driving past would have had a bumper load of cars to shout about.' The study also revealed that for 67 per cent of those who play car games, the point doing so is simply to pass time and stave off boredom, but 43 per cent rely on them to lighten the mood. And 16 per cent turn to them to reduce screen time or random scrolling on their phones. It also emerged 63 per cent of adults claimed car games make them feel nostalgic for the car trips of their childhood. UK car journeys were the most popular time to break out a game (53 per cent), followed by when going a day trip (41 per cent) and visiting friends and family (32 per cent). But 21 per cent of adults also play them when driving with friends and 17 per cent do so on the exciting journey to the airport. And nearly one in 10 (eight per cent) of the parents polled, via OnePoll, turn to them to keep kids entertained on the school run. MOST POPULAR CAR GAMES I-spy First One to See... Car Brand Spotting Yellow Car License Plate Game Alphabet Game Rock, Paper, Scissors Who Am I? 20 Questions Memory Game Spot the Animal Name that Tune Would you Rather Truth or Dare Word Association Travel Treasure Hunt / Bingo Two Truths and a Lie Hum the Tune Story Builder Guess the Movie Quote