It’s a time honoured classic – the Great British BBQ. Turns out though, we’d swap marinated meats on the ‘cue for a traditional tea indoors in a heartbeat. Why? Because, according to kitchen roll brand Regina, the mess that these succulent meat-fuelled sessions create is too much for us to bear.

Over three quarters of us in the UK have been known to steer clear of the barby because we can’t handle the chaos they create. To add more fuel to the fire (or char to the grill) sticky fingers and cleaning the beastly gadget afterwards are also turn-offs for any BBQ host.

If you think you can brave the BBQ though, parenting coach and spokesperson for Regina, Judy Reith, has shared her top tips for throwing a stress-free BBQ.

MAKE A PLAN 

BBQs work best when you share the load. Agree in advance with your family who’s coming, timings, what to eat, who’s shopping and cooking, and who is clearing up. Test and clean the BBQ the night before to eliminate any pre-BBQ stress – rubbing the grill with half a cut onion followed by a strong, durable kitchen towel is a great way to remove any grit or grease before use.

KEEP IT CLEAN
Use bio-degradable disposable plates to save time on the washing up and bring the recycling bin outside so you can tidy as you go. Encourage your guests to scrap leftovers into the food bin and make sure you have some kitchen towel on hand for any spillages – and to clean up sticky fingers!

MAKE IT EASY

Outdoor eating should be fun and relaxed. It’s not MasterChef!  Take the stress out by preparing things like salads, marinades and desserts in advance and make sure the menu is easy to prepare and cook so everyone can enjoy it.  Keep experimental items as optional sides and encourage kids to try something new. Honey dipped prawns anyone?

KEEP IT SAFE

Eating outside? Think safety. Insects will join you for dinner, so keep mozzie repellent or light Citronella candles nearby and encourage kids to stay calm around wasps and flies. Make sure food is cooked thoroughly; using a thermometer helps. Keep little ones away from the BBQ.

HAVE FUN

Summer outdoor eating only lasts a few weeks, so keep FUN front and centre.  You have the chance to create warm and wonderful family memories if you focus on the fun, not the fuss. Who takes photos of ordinary family meals compared to relaxing in the garden with a BBQ and friends round?

So, what’s it going to be? Mess, or making the most of the final throes of the British Summer? We know what we’re going to do *said whilst collecting kitchen roll and heading for the back door*