Britons are turning to the internet rather than the pub or shops to release them from the stresses of everyday life, according to an internet service provider.

In its survey of 1,200 people, BT Total Broadband found that four-fifths of women used the internet to “indulge in 'me' time.” A fifth of women also used it to “escape the normality of everyday life,” regularly accessing gossip blogs and social networking sites in order to connect with their friends.

Men were found to be far more reliant on this medium than women, with nearly a quarter of men admitting to using the internet to escape the pressures of work. Three-quarters said they spent hours on the internet buying clothes, gadgets, music and films to help them relax, rather than participating in traditional activities such as drinking with friends, playing sports and reading.

In addition, just over a third of men said they used the internet for socialising with new people on networking sites and as a way to approach potential new partners.

The research also highlighted a generational difference, with two-thirds of parents stating that they found using the internet more important than those with no children. These said going online was a huge help as it allowed them to seek advice, book trips for their kids and to look for gifts if they are too busy to go to the shops.