A QUARTER of homeowners in Bolton would struggle with simple household improvement tasks, according to new research.

One in four people questioned across the town admitted that they would be unable to bleed a radiator, set a boiler or turn a water mains off in a survey by boiler manufacturer Baxi Potterson.

The poll also discovered that 10 per cent of homeowners in Bolton even struggle to read their electricity meter and change a simple fuse.

The DIY gender gap was also found to be closing in the town, with only 20 per cent more men than women saying they knew how to bleed a radiator and change a fuse.

The older generation appeared more confident with DIY tasks, saying they would be more likely to get stuck in than less-experienced homeowners. Of the 2,000 people questioned, 60 per cent said that they would never enter their cellar or loft.

Gren Ward, of Baxi Potterton, said: "Many of these tasks are quick and simple, but are shrouded in mystery."