Manners ( and tea) still maketh us British

TRUE signs of Britishness include the ability to make a proper cup of tea and saying sorry too often, a study found.

A quarter believe manners are still a British virtue, although 19 per cent feel we’ve become a bunch of moaners and 17 per cent think we’re now better known for getting drunk than the famous “stiff upper lip”.

The survey of 1,000 Britons found that nearly half of us believe talking about the weather is a real indication of someone being British ( 47 per cent). Meanwhile a third feel our love of a queue is what reveals our nationality, followed by our unique sense of humour ( 29 per cent) and barbecuing in the rain ( 13 per cent).

When it comes to traits, we pride ourselves on being polite, honest and hard working – although some believe we have become unhealthy and lazy.

More than a third believe we remember our pleases and thank- yous and 28 per cent noted honesty while 26 per cent commented on work ethic.

Despite being an island, we have given much to the world including our language, Shakespeare, football and the Royals.

Topping our list of best exports is the language while the internet and even the full English breakfast made the list.

After more than 60 years on the throne, the Queen is our favourite Royal ( 26 per cent) but Prince Harry comes a close second on 25 per cent. Prince William was third on 12 per cent with his wife Kate on 11 per cent. The Royal family was also seen as a key driver of tourism with 29 per cent claiming they attract overseas visitors to the UK.

Simon Norton of holiday rentals company Cottages. com who carried out the survey, said: “While we often poke fun at ourselves, it's clear that as a nation we are distinctly proud of our traditions and the characteristics which defi ne us.”

ACCORDING to a survey, real signs of “being British” include making a proper cup of tea and saying sorry too often. They left one sign off the list – a subscription to the Daily Express.