Brits fire up the BBQ when temperatures hit 14C – and even rain won’t stop them

Britons reckon temperatures only need to reach 14C before they fire up the barbecue. Research involving 2,000 adults found that 21% are willing to start grilling even when the thermometer shows single figures. The most dedicated 67% will carry on until they spot signs of a storm their gazebo simply couldn't withstand. Meanwhile, 45% would keep their tongs firmly in hand despite thunder rolling overhead, and an impressive third would push through a full-blown storm - while average winds of 30mph wouldn't deter others either. A determined 50% have never called off a barbecue because of poor weather , with 14% believing that cooking in unpredictable conditions is part of the attraction. A quarter would outright refuse to pack up if the food was too delicious, while 31% wouldn't want to let down their guests, reports the Daily Star . A spokesperson for bakery brand St Pierre, which conducted the study, said: "Although we've had a bout of beautiful sunshine recently, it's clear it would have to be raining cats and dogs for us to sacrifice our barbecues. "It's incredible to see just how much it takes before people finally call it. For many of us, drizzle is just background noise, and even a bit of a chill won't stop the tongs coming out if friends are on their way. "That 'we'll make it work' spirit and instinct to gather around good food – whatever the forecast - is a big part of what makes summer feel like summer in Britain." Research from OnePoll.com reveals that 49% of those forced to call off a barbecue did so on the day itself. Yet, equipment such as a robust umbrella (19%), patio heater (28%), or gazebo (34%) could persuade people to carry on with their barbecue plans despite adverse weather conditions. Almost half (48%) say that barbecue culture forms a significant part of their British summertime enjoyment, with 58% asserting that the smell of a barbecue signifies the first true sign of summer. This year, 50% are looking to experiment with novel or unconventional barbecue fare, or blend traditional favourites with 'something different'; 39% want to explore new flavours, and 22% intend to plan menus and prepare ingredients well beforehand to elevate their outdoor entertaining. The St Pierre spokesperson added: "There's clearly no 'official' start date for BBQ season, but what is consistent is how strongly people associate BBQs with British summertime. "That smell of grilling really does feel like the starter's pistol for long evenings, relaxed weekends and bringing people together. "And while Brits might be famously optimistic about the weather, many are planning the menu and prepping ingredients well ahead of time - showing that even the most simple summertime meal can be a little more memorable when you take the time to do it properly."