More Brits eating at home

There is a growing trend for staying at home and making use of kitchens and dining rooms at meal times, it has been claimed.

Amode buyer Helen Harwood explained consumers are investing in their eating spaces as they realise it is more cost-effective to avoid restaurants.

She said: "[Dining rooms are] where loved ones gather to catch up on their day's events and spend quality time together. And as people are eating out less, they are entertaining at home more and hosting dinner parties."

Ms Harwood added the room was often the "heart" of the home.

Those who wish to have people over for meals on a regular basis may consider building a dining room extension or conservatory to afford guests views of the garden while they eat.

A recent survey by Ask Jeeves found almost half of the respondents said they were eating more meals at home now than ever before.

In other news, First Rung Now has said the government's Home Buy schemes are flawed and do not help first-time buyers in the way they could.