More than a third of Britons are losing two years of sleep in a lifetime because of their partner's snoring, a survey suggests.

Slumbering next to a snorer robs a person of about two hours sleep per night, according to the British Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Association (BSSAA).

With an average relationship lasting 24 years, this would equate to a loss of two years' sleep for 15 million Brits.

Snoring Facts

- Four in every 10 (about 15 million in total) UK adults snore, according to estimates
10.4 million are males and 4.5 million females
- Men are perceived to be louder snorers than women
- 58% of snorers are between 50-59 years of age

"Lack of sleep can have a negative consequence on your physical, mental and emotional health. Poor sleep is linked with poor academic performance, increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes..." said Marianne Davey, co-founder of the BSSAA.

Snoring is a coarse sound made by vibrations of the soft palate and other tissues of the mouth, nose and throat (upper airway).

It is caused by a partial blockage of the upper airway.

There are a number of factors that can make snoring worse, including alcohol, being overweight or having a cold.

Sleeping on your side rather than back can help.