People in Cornwall are too polite to correct each other's misheard sayings, according to new research.

Writer and broadcaster Gyles Brandreth is working to correct misconceptions of well-known sayings, including 'wriggle room', 'escape goat', 'damp squid', and 'nip in the butt'.

The research, part of Specsavers' Misheard Manifesto, found that 33 per cent of people in the region use at least one saying incorrectly, and 50 per cent have been mishearing them for years.

Mr Brandreth, who has hearing loss, said: "These misheard sayings have plagued our nation’s conversations for too many years.

"Clear hearing is the cornerstone of clear conversations.

"So if you’ve ever heard these treasured sayings as ‘escape goat’ when it’s ‘scapegoat’ or, dare I say, it ‘nip it in the butt’ when it’s ‘nip it in the bud’, consider getting a hearing check."

The research also revealed a culture of silence around hearing difficulties and misused words.

57 per cent of people said they wouldn’t want to embarrass or offend someone by pointing out their mistake, while 43 per cent said they were too polite to correct them.

When they are corrected, 32 per cent are surprised and 21 per cent are shocked.

Specsavers audiologist Martina McNulty said: "18 million adults in the UK have hearing loss and many more don’t realise that they are not hearing things as clearly as they used to.

"The earlier we recognise this and the sooner we act, the more we can minimise any long-term damage.

"If there is any hearing loss, we can help you find the hearing technology that suits your needs and lifestyle."

TV’s Dr Zoe Williams added: "Everyone’s hearing changes over time but you shouldn’t have to settle for ‘OK’ hearing.

"If you’re mishearing things or just getting the gist during conversation, there’s no need to feel embarrassed or ashamed.

"Get a free hearing check on the high street to find out what support can put you on track to hearing clearly again."

Watch a promo of Specsavers' Mishearing Manifesto here.