THE National Farmers' Union turned out some flowery prose yesterday - to help their horticultural members sell more flowers to unromantic Britain.

In a press release issued at the Chelsea flower show, they informed the world that 54% of Britons have never, ever, received a bunch of flowers from loved ones.

And even the lucky ones who get a bunch at least once a year represent only 13% of the population - although research shows that a gift of flowers "can help make a person feel loved, appreciated and happy - sometimes all three."

The NFU research was designed to boost a campaign called "Are you getting yours once a week?" - meaning flowers, of course.

As Yorkshire Dales folk are not widely known for their public shows of affection, we at Daelnet thought that the following statistics might bring a little more romance into these dull and rainy days:

• 54% of all British adults have never received flowers.
• 32% of women only get flowers on special occasions.
• More than 60% of people feel roses are the most appropriate flower for a first date or a marriage proposal.
• Colour was the most important factor when choosing flowers. 33% said the hue of their bouquet affected their decision but only 17% cited the cost.
• The main reason we give flowers is to say thank you. More than a third cited this reason compared with less than a quarter to say: "I love you".