One national survey has found the traditional British meal of crispy battered fish and salty chips is the best smell, beating bread baking, clean sheets, fresh coffee, bacon frying and a roast dinner.

Bob Johal, who owns Steve's Fish Bar in Wellingborough High Street, said: "The survey is spot on – fish and chips is the best smell in the world.

"Although I am a bit biased because I love fish and chips."

However, others questioned by the Evening Telegraph preferred other more natural smells, including freshly cut grass which came third in the poll.

Tracy Nichols, 39, a nursery manager living in Vicarage Farm Road, Wellingborough, said: "My favourite smell is freshly cut grass.

"I think it is because we had a big garden when I was growing up, and lots of parkland behind the house.

"It reminds you of summer."

John Smith, 71, retired, of Bell Court in Wellingborough, said: "I like the smell of grass when it's been cut, as well as other country smells like hay and leather.

"I don't like the smell of stale cigarette smoke.

"And I also hate the smell of the black bins and green bins of rubbish – it never used to be as bad as it is now."

Researchers said the sense of smell connects the deep subconscious regions of the brain and triggers different emotions and behaviours.

Smells at the bottom of the national survey, by Finish dishwasher products, included body odour and public toilets.