Classic TV sitcoms are lifting the nation during lockdown – with Only Fools and Horses No1 for raising a smile in adversity.

Del Boy and Rodney’s antics with Grandad and Uncle Albert were voted the most comforting watch in a 1,500-viewer poll.

Gavin & Stacey was second with Father Ted following in third.

The Vicar of Dibley, Open All Hours, Porridge, One Foot in The Grave and The Royle Family were also favourites, with Top Gear the only non-comedy in the top 10.

The BritBox research found more than a third of adults said nostalgic TV shows eased stress.

(Image: BBC)

Three ­quarters felt old comedies made them feel closer to family and friends.

Psychologist Donna Dawson said: “It is interesting how many Brits are turning to classic TV for comfort.

“In times of stress, laughter helps us feel better by releasing the chemical serotonin, which floods our bodies and immediately makes us happier and more relaxed.

“By re-watching programmes that made us laugh before, we ­guarantee we recreate the effect.

“It’s a way of temporarily escaping reality.”

(Image: Channel 4)

(Image: BBC )

Sitcoms ruled the roost but the show, Attenborough: 60 Years in the Wild and detective series Death in ­Paradise made the top 20.

The poll also found Sheffield was the lockdown TV hotspot, with 85% of residents watching more than usual, compared with the average of 70%.

(Image: BBC)

And all that viewing seems to be hungry work.

Those polled said their favourite treats in front of the box were chocolate, a takeaway and a cuppa.

Top 20 TV shows to watch in a crisis

Only Fools and Horses Gavin & Stacey Father Ted Top Gear The Vicar of Dibley Open All Hours Porridge One Foot in the Grave The Royle Family Blackadder Benidorm The Two Ronnies Keeping Up Appearances The Good Life Attenborough: 60 Years in the Wild Doc Martin Red Dwarf My Family Outnumbered Death in Paradise

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