Lights off Larry: Survey finds a quarter of men prefer to have sex with the lights off...because they're ashamed of their bodies

The study, which polled British men between the ages of 20 and 30, claims to prove that male body confidence is at an all-time low

Research carried out by the home diet delivery service, Diet Chef, found that a quarter of the British men they surveyed prefer to have sex with the lights off because they're uncomfortable and ashamed of their bodies. (Rex Features)

Groundbreaking research it might not be, but a new survey of 1,077 men has shed light (or rather the opposite) on the sex lives of British men. And unsuprisingly it's all a bit murky.

Research carried out by the home diet delivery service, Diet Chef, found that a quarter of the British men they surveyed prefer to have sex with the lights off because they're uncomfortable and ashamed of their bodies.

The study, which polled British men between the ages of 20 and 30, claims to prove that male body confidence is at an all-time low with 45% of the men surveyed considering themselves to be overweight, while just under a fifth of men (16%) thinking they are clinically obese.

The survey claims that the the stomach is the main problem area; with a staggering 64 per cent stating it to be the least favourite part of their body.

In other sex-survey-electricity-saving news, condom firm Durex today released the findings of a study which they claim illustrates that British lovers are allowing technology to get in the way of their relationships and sex lives.

The survey, released to coincide with Earth Hour, an annual event organised by charity, WWF to encourage people around the world to turn off their lights for one hour to celebrate their commitment to the planet, claims that 40 per cent of people believe that technology is adversely affecting their relationship.

The survey of 2,000 people found that 60 per cent of us spend more time using technology in bed than having sex and a slightly staggering one in six of us have even checked Facebook during sex.

Sex and Relationship expert, Susan Quilliam, said: "Many people find love through dating websites or social media - but it's a worrying trend that many are also feeling gradually ousted in their relationships in favour of interaction online.

“There is, of course, a great place for technology in our lives but habitual use and reliance on our gadgets can lead to bad habits in relationships.”

As a call to action, Durex is releasing a short film which encourages people to make the most of Earth Hour by reconnecting whilst the lights are off. It can be viewed on YouTube from tomorrow.