Bedtime stories are neglected by parents

Reality TV star Sam Faiers reads a bedtime story as part of a 'Big Sleepover' event staged by Ikea

But it could be the contents of today’s stories that are putting them off - as more than two-thirds of parents believe that today’s tales are “too sanitised” for children.

The survey, by tuition provider Explore Learning, also asked which was the region’s favourite fairy tale, with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs coming out top.

Cinderella was named a close second, with Jack and the Beanstalk coming third. But despite the enduring popularity of fairy tales, 72 per cent of parents said they do not read to their children every night.

Carey Ann Dodah, head of curriculum at Explore Learning, which has centres in Leeds, Sheffield and York said: “It is worrying to see that parents are not taking quality time out of their day to read a story to their children.”