One in three mothers will feel lonely when their child heads to university this September, a survey revealed yesterday.

Half of those with teenagers flying the nest said they planned to keep the first few days after term starts free, just in case they are needed by their child.

Most of those questioned, 90 per cent, said they wanted their son or daughter to feel comfortable in their new home, with towels and clean sheets coming top of the list of items they see as essential for their student digs.

Their children considered mobile phones and laptops as the most important items to take with them, however – although towels were their third choice.

One in four of those surveyed by homewares store Dunelm Mill also said they would feel depressed at the thought of the house being empty once their child goes to university.

Sue Atkins, a parenting coach, said: “It’s only natural that parents can feel a great loss when their children leave home.”