The secret behind the perfect cup of tea revealed?

Everyone prepares their cuppa in slightly different ways. Teabags or loose leaf, milk before or after the tea, with or without sugar. However, when it comes to the perfect preparation technique one expert has a tip we can all follow.

Speaking to the Mirror, The Jockey Club's etiquette expert, Neil Phillips, says most make an error when stirring. Stirring gently in straight lines from the top to the bottom of the mug is key, rather than around the cup.

"It is about going from six to 12 very gently" Phillips says.

"If you're adding sugar it will allow it to dissolve properly. If you just stir it it will all fall to the bottom. You don't need to do it for long, just a few goes."

"It just allows the tea and milk to blend together."

The when it comes to brewing duration, Phillips adds "it's personal preference, some people will just wait a couple of minutes."

But he does advise leaving your tea to steep for around four to five minutes.

Have a try of his techniques and let us know if you enjoy the results in the comment section below.