Britons 'hark back to olden days'

Last Modified: 25 Jul 2008
Source: PA News

Britons are tiring of the pace of modern life, with many people hankering after a return to the values of the past, a survey has shown.

Six out of 10 people would like to reinstate the practice of having a job for life, while 55% would like a commute of less than 45 minutes, according to Chelsea Building Society.

Around 79% of people said they missed "service with a smile", 87% would like children to have better manners and 84% thought people should say please and thank you more often.

Other things Britons would like to see a return of include people giving up their seats for the elderly, family meals around the dinner table and family outings to the zoo and beach.

Around 69% of people said they thought children should be allowed to be children for longer, while 72% wanted to see a return of children being able to play outside their homes.

Other things people claimed they missed were independent shops, helping your neighbours and having Sunday as a day of rest.

Just over half of those questioned also thought people should eat less fast food and spend more time outdoors.

Darren Stevens, director of customer services at Chelsea Building Society, said: "Despite the advantages of modern society, many consumers wish life were simpler and less pressured.

"With the extensive media coverage surrounding crime, childhood obesity, extended working hours and downgraded service it is unsurprising that people will hark back to the 'good old days'."

The research was based on responses from 1,424 people questioned online between June 25 and July 15.

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