While there are plenty of women who are keen to invest time and effort in a loving relationship, men must understand they do not have the right to attention 24/7.

In fact, new research by Paddy Power Bingo shows almost half (46 per cent) of women would prefer to spend time with their girlfriends than have a day out with their husbands. Female pals were said to be more fun and open to laughter and gossip.

A third of those to respond to the poll admitted they find it easier to talk about serious issues with their female friends, while a quarter suggested it is only their mates who know "the real me".

One in five said they felt their girlfriends always seem to be far more interested in what they are doing and how they are feeling than their lover is. And it is not only girls who can lure people away from their husbands, as 24 per cent even revealed they would love to spend their free time alone.

A spokeswoman for Paddy Power Bingo said: "The research found that although women love their other half they do love time with their girlfriends to have a laugh. Likewise, having the house to themselves is bliss for women with busy families."

Men who are looking to attract a new girlfriend – perhaps by signing up to an online dating site – need to remember they are not the only aspect of a woman's life and they must be willing to let them enjoy time on their own or with friends.

Online dating is a great platform for meeting someone new as it puts people in touch with thousands of individuals they would otherwise never have found, so users should set the right tone by emphasising their easygoing nature.

Those who play the situation perfectly may even find their girlfriends and wives are among those who are not so desperate to get away from them at any opportunity.ADNFCR-2867-ID-801647631-ADNFCR

%d bloggers like this: