In the poll, commissioned to mark the launch of Freeview HD, it was revealed that Brits are a nation of weepers, with 91% admitting they had shed a tear while watching a favourite show. And Vera's last onscreen moments were some of the saddest, earning a place at No 8.

Surprisingly, in the results from 3,000 people who took part, it was revealed that men were more likely to blub in front of the box than their female counterparts; 60% of women enjoy a regular cry while watching TV, while 79% of men said they cried once a week.