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A study by the AA (Home Emergency Response), reckons DIY skills could become extinct within the next 40 years as fewer people learn basic skills.

The AA study revealed only a third of men felt confident in their ability to carry out "simple repair and maintenance tasks".

It blames fewer fathers passing on skills to children. For example, in the 1970's, 71% learnt DIY skills from family members compared to just 44% today.

The study also revealed that 73% of those aged between 55 and 65 had been able to complete DIY challenges at home compared with just 32% of under 25's.

Worryingly, the HSBC has warned of a 'make do and mend' climate developing with half of people likely to try and get items like kitchen appliances repaired rather than consider replacing them. That might also be a consequence of the current economic climate.