CELEBRITY Rylan Clark has become a “scent sommelier” – hosting a scent masterclass for shoppers to match personalities with the perfect candles.

The TV personality, from Stanford-le-Hope, found his love of fine fragrances when he was involved in the research and development of his first scent in 2018.

It comes after research of 2,000 adults found the nation’s favourite candle scents are vanilla (26 per cent), fresh linen (19 per cent), and lavender (18 per cent).

Rylan, who is hosting the masterclass at Homesense Thurrock, said: “A house isn’t a home without a candle flickering away. Scents can impact your mood, so it’s important you choose a fragrance that makes you feel good.

“No matter what the weather or time of year, there is always a candle burning at mine.

“I love the fact I’m taking my passion to the next level and my first official engagement as scent sommelier will be hosting a ‘Home Scents Masterclass’ with On the Scent podcaster Suzy Nightingale at my local store.

“We’ll share our top tips on mood boosting, scent scaping and scent layering.”

As colder months approach, the research found cinnamon (29 per cent), pumpkin spice (24 per cent) and sandalwood were deemed ideal for chilly weather among candle buyers.

And scent was deemed the main consideration when buying a candle (51 per cent), followed by the cost (16 per cent).

And it’s no surprise they’re so popular when 50 per cent of those surveyed said they like to receive them as a gift, according to the findings by OnePoll.

Respondents said they are most likely to light one up for special occasions including Christmas (31 per cent), to create a cosy atmosphere (28 per cent), and when entertaining guests (21 per cent).

And nearly a fifth (18 per cent) have as many as ten candles currently in their home waiting to be lit, while 37 per cent feel ‘overwhelmed’ by the amount of choice available when it comes to purchasing a flickering pillar.

Deborah Dolce, group director for Homesense, says: “We’re undoubtedly a nation of candle-lovers and our sales soar in the autumn as people create a cosy mood as the colder nights draw in.

“In the UK, the average spend on a candle is £9 and our research revealed half of Brits like to receive one as a gift.

“We hope Rylan’s tips will help everyone choose the best candle, whether it’s a gift for a loved one or a treat for yourself.”