Now we’re sick of living in the city by time we’re 37

YOUNG people fed up with the cost of property and lack of space in the city are turning their backs on urban life.

The average age of those moving from the city to the country has dropped to 37 – ten years younger than a decade ago.

Changing attitudes towards flexible working, combined with improved broadband access in rural areas are allowing people to move from cities without having to leave their jobs.

The research was carried out by estate agents Hamptons International, who looked at mortgage data for 84 ,000 people. ‘I think the biggest problem is affordability,’ said Hamptons’ head of research, Aneisha Beveridge. ‘We have seen house prices rise so quickly in cities people are having to look further afield.

The data comes as a separate study suggests air pollution may hinder men’s ability in the bedroom. Researchers in China found that regular exposure to toxic car fumes was linked with higher rates of erectile dysfunction. ‘This study was in rats but if it was in men I’d expect the same results.’ said Dr Geoff Hackett, chairman of British Society of Sexual Medicine.