More than a third of British people have never spoken to their neighbours, according to a survey. And only 7 per cent of people in the East know their neighbours names. I think this is quite believable, especially when towns are continuing to expand and

More than a third of British people have never spoken to their neighbours, according to a survey.

And only 7 per cent of people in the East know their neighbours' names.

I think this is quite believable, especially when towns are continuing to expand and families are growing up.

When I was younger I always used to play in the street with friends, and nine times out of 10, my parents knew their parents, and they used to have a chat in the street.

But that doesn't happen any more.

Children don't seem to play in the streets for safety reasons so people are more inclined to stay indoors and keep themselves to themselves.

People walk out their house and jump straight into a car and are quite happy to blank someone just five feet away.

There is no question that people aren't as friendly any more because close-knit communities are dispersing and life seems to be one big rat race.

I can't remember the last time someone held a door open for me - they're more likely to shut it in your face.

I held a door open for a mother with a pushchair once and did I get a please or thank you? No I didn't! She just expected me to stand their like a lemon, as if I had all the time in the world.

I'll be in a shop looking at something and you have someone stand behind you tutting. But do you get an excuse me? No, because they stupidly think you can read their mind.

Abroad it's a completely different story - they are more laid back and welcome you into their bar or shop like you have known them for years.

- The survey which was compiled by Norwich Union Insurance, questioned 1,002 people aged 18 and over.