Brits taking up daredevil sports to escape recession

London, Sept 20 (ANI): Brits are widely taking up daredevil sports to escape financial problems arising out of the recent economic crisis.

Days out sky diving, bungee jumping and powerboat racing have soared to a record high.

The adventurous trend is popular with newlyweds who are giving up on traditional wedding gifts such as toasters in favour of death-defying experiences.

"With so many economic experts telling us all to be careful, the rebels in society are deliberately doing the opposite," the Daily Star quoted One4all gift card spokesman Aoife Davey as saying.

"Knowing that the economic future is beyond their control has also persuaded thousands of people to instead live for today," he said.

One4all noticed the trend began just after the General Election.

Until then, the majority of gift cards had been used to buy items for the home, toys and electrical products.

However, in May, the number used to buy "experiences" rose by 41 percent.

Demand continued to rocket in June, as economists were beginning to outline the scale of the crisis.

And August saw a 214 percent increase as details of the cutbacks began to emerge.

One4all experts believe the trend will accelerate as Christmas nears.

Tandem skydiving is the most popular extreme thrill followed by bungee jumping, wake-boarding and rally driving.

"It's their way of lifting the doom and gloom," said Aoife.

"Thinking about pensions and house prices is difficult when you're wondering if your parachute is going to open in time," he added. (ANI)