The average distance travelled by a British commuter has increased by six per cent during the last decade and now stands at around 8.7 miles, it has been revealed.

Figures from the RAC Foundation also show that the number of commuters in the UK driving 50 miles or more to their office is on the increase and that 16 per cent of all journeys nationwide are made by Britons heading to or from their workplace.

However, despite the revelation that the typical car-driving commuter travels two-and-a-half times around the world during their lifetime, the RAC has noted a positive trend toward increased home-based working practices around the country.

Elizabeth Dainton, research development manager at the RAC Foundation said: "Adopting smarter working practices can make a big difference to the distance and time committed to the commute.

"Working from home just one day a week can reduce commuting distance by 20 per cent and working outside the normal nine to five helps reduce congestion and time spent at the wheel."

A recent study carried out by Cornhill Direct revealed that seven out of ten office staff in the UK would prefer to do their job from their homes.