Tea in hard times - Support your friends with a cuppa
The old-fashioned high tea - scones, cakes, sandwiches and, of course, a refreshing cuppa - is enjoying a credit-crunch revival and attracting a new, young clientele, it was claimed yesterday.
Tea drinking customers are starting to shun expensive chain coffee houses in favour of more homely cafes and many more inviting their friends and neighbours back into their homes for a cuppa.
It was reported by the executive chairman of the UK Tea Council, “The event of afternoon tea is becoming fashionable again. It seems a younger generation is re-understanding the charm and elegance of the traditional English custom.”
“We are finding that a lot of people are getting fed up with national chains of coffee houses,” she said. “They realise that a pot of tea and a scone the size of a dinner plate is better value for money than a grande latte and pre-packaged food.”
The custom of taking afternoon tea is thought to have been created by a Duchess of Bedford in the 18th century.
It is believed the duchess used to complain of a “sinking feeling” in late afternoon, so would have a pot of tea and a snack. She began inviting her friends to join her between 3pm and 5pm.
“We have seen a huge increase in popularity of afternoon tea amongst certain groups of people,” he said. “I think that it has a retro appeal to younger generations looking for a bit of escapism from their hectic lives.”
Oh and I only hope they realise the health benefits - wouldn’t it be nice to see young Australians also starting to enjoy afternoon tea - “watch this space in early January for your chance to win a free high tea for 2 with Australian Fruit Tea.
