SOUTHAMPTON is the most sleep-deprived city in the south, according to new research, which cites Brexit and mobile phone apps as being amongst the sleep stealers.

Research shows that adults need between seven and nine hours sleep per night.

But according to the research, by The Cotswold Company, Southampton residents are getting, on average, just 4.3 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night, making it the sleepiest city in the south and the fifth sleepiest city in the country.

Glaswegians are the most sleep-deprived, according to the survey, averaging 3.4 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night, while Bristolians were getting the best rest, averaging 5.1 hours uninterrupted sleep per night.

Stress, money, room temperature, uncertainty over Brexit and using apps before bed were cited as some of the causes of a wakeful night.

James Birtwhistle, co-founder and marketing director of The Cotswolds Company commented on the findings: “The results of the survey were quite shocking for us to see and it’s really alarming to discover that we live in a nation of such poor sleepers who are getting by on significantly less hours per night than the recommended amount.

“Whilst it’s understandable that aspects of day to day lives such as money, health and politics can affect us deeply and therefore affect our sleep patterns, it’s essential that we find a way that works for us to get our minds and subsequently our bodies to get that all important rest they need to function.

“As well as allowing your brain to switch off and unwind before bed time through things such as reading or turning off your mobile phone well before bedtime, we believe that ensuring you have calm and cosy bedroom is a big part of making sure you have optimum sleep.”

John Wilson from contact lens supplier of Pure Optical added: “Missing out on a good night’s sleep can cause anything from eye spasms, burst blood vessels and even blurry vision from dry eye. 

"These effects while sounding minor, can cause massive disruption to your day, at work or school you’ll have less focus and concentration, meaning your productivity will be cut down and then these disruptions can even become dangerous if you drive.

“For drivers, even minor eye spasms could cause you to take your eyes off the road and get into an accident and this is before you even consider all the other issues a poor night’s sleep can to you.”

The study also revealed that those who have jobs in industries such as installation, maintenance and repair, healthcare practitioners and technical operatives and protective service occupations, where optimum concentration levels and attention to detail is often crucial, are amongst the worst five industries for sleeplessness.