Packing up a picnic hamper and heading outdoors could soon become a thing of the past, the National Trust has warned.

Although it found that 91 per cent of people enjoy eating outside, many are dissuaded from doing so because the UK's weather is so unpredictable, the charity found.

Meanwhile, 62 per cent do not like picnicking due to wasps and other insects, as over a quarter (26 per cent) resent getting dirt and sand in their food.

National Trust director-general Fiona Reynolds said: "Spring is finally here and we have our extra hour's daylight - it's a great time of year to head outdoors and enjoy food with a view."

Celebrity chef Anthony Worrall Thompson recently offered his top BBQ tips, which included catering for vegetarians with a selection of vegetable skewers.

He also recommended cooking seafood such as salmon on the BBQ.