Nearly a third of Brits want to enjoy their turkey alfresco this Christmas, says new survey, as more people than ever embrace the growing trend of eating outdoors all year round.
Despite reports that the UK is set to have its longest winter for 50 years, more people are determined to make use of their garden in the colder months, with 37% refusing to let the weather get in their way, wrapping up warm so that they can spend more time outdoors.

According to the survey conducted by Cuprinol, barbecues have become a popular way to banish winter blues, with almost 30% of Brits turning up the gas, as 51% prefer to take the party to the outside to entertain friends and 82% claim that spending time outside improves their mood.

The survey also found that 30% of Brits actually spend as much time in their garden in the run up to Halloween and Bonfire Night as they do in the summer months.

And it seems that atmosphere is everything, with 29% investing in fairy lights, lamps and candles to brighten their evenings, and 51% investing in outdoor heating and cosy seating areas, presenting retailers with a host of outdoor sales opportunities during the winter months.

Yet despite gardens becoming such a focus for households, less than half of Brits invest in any type of wood treatment or paint to ensure their garden fencing and decking withstands the harsh winter weather - even though 75% claim they try to keep their garden in good condition throughout winter to ensure there's less work needed in spring.

Cuprinol's Katie Taylor said of the findings "Gardens are no longer a space that we enjoy for just three months of the year. More people are investing in their garden to ensure it is a space they can make the most of - come rain or shine."