More than 40% of the UK population and a third (35%) of workers have thought about starting up their own business and one in five intends to take the plunge in the next 12 months, according to research by Business Link.

The main motivation is to gain more freedom in the way they work, with 40% saying this was the main driver.

A further 37% said they simply wanted to earn more money than they currently did, with 15% wanting to go it alone because they weren't currently satisfied in their current role. Another quarter said they wanted to turn a hobby into a paying business.

"It's encouraging to see how many people dream of setting up their own business to enjoy the flexibility and benefits of working for themselves," said Rosemary French of Business Link. "The research also showed that nearly as many women as men are keen to become their own boss."

But the current economic climate would put off 41% from starting up their own business in the near future while 30% would also have concerns over getting into debt.

A third admitted they were unlikely to start up in the near future simply because they were unsure how to go about it. Of those that did intend to start up, 45% plan to do so using a bank loan, overdraft or credit card.

"Many people who wish to start their own company can be put off due to fear of failure or uncertainty about how to start," added French. "However, there is a wealth of free information, advice and support available locally and online, to help budding entrepreneurs every step of the way."

The poll also revealed that retail, art and culture, and health are the most popular sectors Brits would consider entering when starting up a new business.