Sunday roasts are a dying tradition for families

A SUNDAY roast with the family is a dying tradition, with just 2 per cent of the nation enjoying the dish with loved ones every week, according to a survey.

Despite almost half the nation living within ten miles of their relatives, spontaneity plays little part nowadays as one in four people have to organise a family dinner a month in advance.

With the best of intentions, almost two-thirds of people surveyed wish they could spend more time with their family and believe meal times are the best way to bring everyone together.

The survey of 1,000 people, conducted by Welsh Lamb, also found that 83 per cent of people believe we spend less time with our families now than we did 20 years ago.

Family expert and parenting coach, Lorraine Thomas, said: “Families that eat together, talk and stay together. For busy mums and dads, it may not always be possible to sit down and eat as a family every day, but try to do it as often as you can.

“Even if you can only manage it once a week - switch off your mobile and the TV and turn that meal into an occasion, a real family event.

“And it’s not just about the eating; everyone can have fun cooking the food and clearing up together too.”

Welsh Lamb Club chef, Luke Thomas, said: “It’s such a shame to see fewer families getting around the dinner table these days. I think food should be at the heart of the home and is a great way of bringing people together.”