Derek’s Big Lunch
Last weekend Wales’ favourite weatherman Derek Brockway was joined by hundreds of passers-by as he hosted a Big Lunch in Cardiff City Centre. The event marked the launch of our Wales-wide research into small talk habits, which revealed that Welsh people seem to be friendlier and chattier than the English and also confirms their obsession with the weather. The nationwide study of 500 adults across Wales revealed that:
- 97% of people in Wales are comfortable making small talk with pretty much anyone – compared to just 72% in England.
- Three quarters (77%) of people consider their neighbour to be a friend
- The majority of us (54%) talk about the weather more than any other subject when it comes to engaging in small talk
- Small talk is important – it ‘brightens up people’s day’ (65%); it’s a ‘lifeline’ for those who live alone (68%) and it helps people feel more part of their local community (86%)
- But almost a fifth of us (17%) are too busy to make small talk with our neighbours
The Big Lunch ambassador, Derek Brockway said,
“Everyone knows how chatty and weather obsessed us Welsh are so it’s no surprise that so many of us enjoy engaging in small talk and even consider our neighbours to be friends. It’s what makes living in Wales so special, but what really struck me about the results of this research was how important these everyday interactions seem to be to a lot of people and the positive impact they can have. It makes people feel like they matter and are part of their local community”.
Although much of research was positive almost one fifth of people in Wales say they are too busy to engage in small talk with their neighbours and 7% of respondents saying they feel awkward or nervous about engaging in small talk. Derek commented “Naturally we all lead busy lives so it’s not always easy or convenient to stop and chat but it is important to make time which is why I’m encouraging the people of Wales to join in and host a Big Lunch in their community on Sunday 1st June 2014. It’s the perfect opportunity to get everyone in your street or community together to share some food and conversation and show just how friendly and community spirited we are here in Wales”.
Lis Duffy and Derek
Lis Duffy from Carmarthen, who held her first Big Lunch last year, joined Derek for his Big Lunch on Saturday and shared her plans for this year. She said: “We are really looking forward to being involved in The Big Lunch again this year. We have booked the local park for a date in July and our lunch will be a big picnic with many local community groups as possible involved and loads of fun activities even a fundraising firewalk!
“We want to bring the whole neighbourhood together, rejuvenate the local community spirit and encourage people to socialize, network and celebrate all the exciting things that Carmarthen has to offer”.
To get chatting to your neighbours and start planning a Big Lunch in your community request your free pack online or get in touch with one of the team by calling 0845 850 8181 or emailing info@thebiglunch.com