Desk-bound blues

Recession ties men down

British men are aching for the outdoors but desk-bound by the recession, according to a study commissioned by Lancaster University.

The report confirmed that 66% of the British workforce has turned to ‘presenteeism’ to safeguard their jobs; as a result, an estimated £184 million of camping, cycling and hiking gear bought or gifted in the last 12 months is lying unused in garages and lofts all over the country.

According to research presented by Redwood Creek, a Californian winemaker, over 50% of British men are not spending any time pursuing outdoors activities due to money worries and increased working hours.

Head winemaker at Redwood Creek, Cal Dennison, said: "It's clear to see that the current economic climate is impacting on British men's ability to take time out - literally. We know the intentions are there however, so we're urging men to step away from their desk and out into the great outdoors at the weekend.”

"Our wines are crafted in California - home to areas of outstanding beauty such as the Yosemite Valley, Lake Tahoe and the Redwood National Forest - so it's unsurprising that we love being outside."