Why it's good to sleep alone

Britain is suffering an insomnia epidemic with more than a third of people failing to sleep properly more than four nights a week.

The biggest-ever study of Britain's sleeping habits found that a further two thirds of people sleep badly at least once a week.

Experts say the results could leave sufferers with psychological problems and plunge their relationships into crisis.

The research found that sharing a bed with a partner is one of the main reasons for a disturbed night. The increased use of laptop computers and bedside telephones also contributes to the problem.

The University of Surrey's Sleep Research Centre analysed more than 2,000 people for the study.

Professor John Groeger, who led the study, admitted even he was surprised by the results.

He said: "We are not sleeping less, but the problem is our sleep is not good sleep. We know this can increase the risk of having an accident, and it can also lead to a serious change in our mood and our general health. With modern lifestyles there is also a huge perception that we never get enough sleep - it's something everyone is worried about, and that compounds the problem."

The full results will be published in December, but researchers decided the initial results were so shocking they should be released early. Professor Groeger said: "This is a huge problem for everyone. People need to improve their sleep.

"The environment is key to getting a good night's sleep. Temperature, light and noise in modern bedrooms can often be wrong.

"People need to think about keeping their bedroom cool, and totally devoid of light. Even an alarm clock with an illuminated display can cause problems. In built-up areas such as London noise is also a big issue, so keeping windows open might not be a good idea."

Relationship counsellor Phillip Hodson believes sleep problems have already ended thousands of relationships. He said: "This is really a double whammy, because people are getting a bad night's sleep, but it also affects them the next day, when they are highly irritable and hard to get on with.

"Separate beds can work, but that can alienate one partner. It really should be a priority to get a good night's sleep though. After all, separate bedrooms are good enough for the Queen."

The Queen and Prince Philip famously sleep separately to ensure the Royal sleep is not disturbed.