Mothers are one of the most likely groups to start their own businesses, with one in ten aspiring to set their own enterprise.

A study by BT Business found that 15 per cent of women had started their own businesses since having children, with one in five attracted by the flexible working hours it offers.

Forty four per cent of respondents felt that the emergence of online social networks creates more opportunities for women in business today.

The survey also found that nearly a third of mothers look to turn their living rooms, kitchens or bedrooms into boardrooms and a quarter will focus their efforts on selling goods or services just online.

Thirteen per cent were thinking of ways in which they could help other working mums and dads as inspiration for their start-ups.

Ivan Croxford, general manager digital marketing services, BT Business said, "We're witnessing the rise of the mumpreneurs. Mums across the UK are embracing the internet and keeping the UK's entrepreneurial spirit alive. We've seen evidence of this on our social business network, BT Tradespace where we're increasingly connecting with women starting their own businesses. We need to ensure that this vital community gets the right support to thrive."