Brighton is the happiest place to live in the UK, according to a survey published today.

A poll found almost 94% of people living in the city have a happy home, compared to a national average of 85%.

Belfast came bottom of a list of 16 places featured in the study, with just over 70% of people living there saying their humble abode was happy.

Cardiff was the happiest place in Wales and fourth in the UK with 90.2%, while Edinburgh was the top place in Scotland with a happiness rating of just over 91%.

The study, commissioned by O2 Home Broadband to support its Happy Homes campaign, claimed there are seven key factors to having a happy home.

These included living in Brighton, being aged 45 or over, being married, having two or more children, earning between £25,000 and £34,000 a year, having friendly neighbours and a broadband link.

Charlotte Barrow, from VisitBrighton.com, said: "We're not surprised to hear that Brighton has the happiest homes.

"We have all the benefits of living in a city - such as the culture, shopping, restaurants and nightlife - with the added bonus of being by the sea which keeps us relaxed and calm.

"Also, as Brighton is a compact place, people generally walk around. This means they get to know their neighbours, adding to the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the city."

Research conducted by Tickbox in association with the Happiness Project questioned 1,273 people across the UK between May 7, 2008 and May 12.

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