MORE young people than ever want to be entrepreneurs, according to a new survey.

Results found that more than half of sixth formers and university students in the South West would consider setting up their own business after they finish.

The 2006 NatWest Student Money Matters survey asked more than 4,000 young people and found that one in four already had an innovative idea that they wished to pursue.

For more than 36 per cent the reason for entering into such an enterprise was simply to avoid joining the rat race by going into a typical office job. More than half said they would give themselves flexible hours.

Despite this, there was a realistic understanding of the effort involved, with most predicting they would need to work nine-hour days, and only take around 21 days holiday a year.

Pete Ferns, who is director of NatWest Business Banking, said: "With the future of the UK's economy in the hands of today's school and university students, it is extremely encouraging to see such ambition and drive among them."