Reading is the third best place for a lasting marriage, research shows.

The town was rated by its average disposable household income, the number of romantic restaurants and the average size of a home.

Interior design company Thomas Sanderson compared the results of 40 cities and found Reading was beaten only by Edinburgh and Brighton in what they said were contributing factors to a lasting marriage.

Chris Pleines of Dating Scout said: “Date nights are important to keep a relationship healthy.

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Especially if you and your partner are both busy with your careers – moreover if you already have children.

Date nights are events wherein you can just focus on one another and strengthen the relationship.

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“It would be nice to have a variety of options nearby your home when choosing a place to have your date.”

He added: “Nobody likes a cramped space with little to no privacy at all.

“Although having a large house can be a luxury for some, it is true that having one preserves privacy and encourages more personal space.

“A marriage needs enough private time and space far away from the eyes and ears of their nosy children and in-laws.”