COUNTY NEWS: Barbecues set to burn a hole in pockets this summer

A study by TopCashback.co.uk reveals, on average, the majority of residents in the South East will host four barbecues throughout the summer, spending £100 on each. They will also attend four, spending £30 on food, drink and gifts to take with them each time. A surprising 19 per cent of residents will spend up to £300 on hosting a barbecue for their friends and family. 42 per cent of residents in the South East also plan on ‘doing up’ their garden for the season, with 37 per cent spending around £300 on the revamp. One out of three residents in the South East say summer is the most expensive season as they plan on splashing their cash on holidays, festivals, sporting events, amusement parks and a new summer wardrobe to make the most of the sun. Other summer financial woes key findings: 37 per cent of residents worry about not having enough money to cover their summer spending 20 per cent of residents cut back on their spending during winter and autumn so they can enjoy the summer more Natasha Rachel Smith, Consumer Affairs Editor for TopCashback, said: “Summer can easily be an expensive season as we do more activities outside to make the most of the inviting weather, which can drive up costs with barbecues, picnics, days out and visits to amusement parks. Planning ahead can insure the cost of summer’s months of fun go by like a breeze. I stock my freezer with foods I like on the barbecue before the season starts and prices are hiked up; I also plan my days out and make the most of discount vouchers and Tesco Clubcard tokens.” Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live. Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on. 1) Make our website your homepage 2) Like our Facebook page 3) Follow us on Twitter 4) Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here. And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out! Always the first with your local news. Be part of it.