Over half of the UK’s entrepreneurs work more than 48 hours a week and 28% believe their health has suffered as a result.

Research by Abbey Business Banking found that entrepreneurs in the south-west worked the longest hours at 58 a week, compared to an average of 44.2 a week in London.

Entrepreneurs in the south-east are most likely to feel their health has suffered as a result of working long hours, with 40% fearing this was the case.

“Entrepreneurs in the UK are working longer and longer hours,” said Ian Wilson, managing director of Abbey Business Banking.

“It is a testament to their dedication and work ethic that they are prepared to put in the extra effort to ensure their businesses succeed. However, working hard comes at a cost.”