Adele, Beatles compete for best thing about Britain title

Queen Elizabeth II, One Direction, the Harry Potter books and Dusty Springfield have also been shortlisted in the 'Greats of Great Britain' survey, which aims to find the public's favourite performers, sites, food and attractions, reported Daily Star.

Individuals with the highest numbers of votes will have the opportunity to perform live at the 'Great Exhibition' event later this year.

And the competition is stiff - the British sarcasm, fish and chips, pubs, the BBC, William Shakespeare, the Union Jack and a cup of tea have all been nominated as the best thing about Britain.