A new survey has shown that people from the north-east of England are more proud of their homes than residents of any other region in the UK.

Halifax Home Insurance indicated that almost three-quarters of those from the region show pride in their homeland.

Wales and Northern Ireland were also revealed to be areas that evoke a particular special fondness among people who live there.

Martyn Foulds, senior claims manager at Halifax Home Insurance, said: "Not only is safety in an area a top reason for feeling regional pride, it is also top on the priority for most people when deciding where to live."

He added - in similar advice to that issued by financial search engine Tescocompare.com earlier this week - that people need to have the right home insurance to ensure their belongings are safe.

De-cluttering and tidiness in properties can add to a feeling of pride, therefore homeowners may wish to consider placing items in safe storage to create more room.

Written by Paul Governor