Post-holiday syndrome is taking a hold - with Yorkshire mothers suffering the most.

According to a new survey, Tyke women come back down to earth faster and harder than other members of the family.

More than 80 per cent of women in Yorkshire think they get a worse deal than men returning to work and children going back to school, with washing and ironing deemed the most dreaded chore.

The survey shows 61 per cent of women in the region spend two hours sorting, washing and ironing when they get home from holiday.

Given the chance to avoid the washing altogether, over half would choose to catch up with friends and 20 per cent would prefer to top up their tan.

Dr Pam Spurr, consumer psychologist, said: "Life is easier on holiday. There are fewer concerns and everything seems unique and different. Deep down we are creatures of habit though, and as soon as we return to our 'habitat' we feel pressure go back to normal. The pressure on mothers is enormous. Once there are suitcases strewn around with dirty clothes trailing out of them and a pile of ripped open mail on the table, they feel responsible for getting it cleared up."

We sent our reporter Emma Harrison out on to the streets of York to find out who is suffering from post-holiday syndrome.

Joanne Mawer, 33, of Escrick, out shopping with her three-year-old son, Harry, said: "We've just got back from holiday and I did all the work as usual. My husband is away a lot - so that's his excuse.

"All the work that needs doing certainly brings you back down to earth again and back to the old mundane routine. You soon forget the relaxing holiday you've had."

Kerry Donohoe, 27 and Chris Mills, 39, from Pocklington, are going on holiday in two weeks. Kerry said: "It will probably be me who does all the packing and sorting. That way I know everything gets done. I will definitely be doing all the ironing and cleaning when we get home."

Charlotte, 35 and Gary Hancock, 34, from Heworth got back from holiday with their two small children a couple of days ago. Charlotte said: "I'm still doing all the washing and ironing and my husband hasn't done a thing. I am tired already, even after two weeks holiday. There is always so much to do, filling the fridge up again, cleaning and unpacking, I'm just getting back into the swing of normal life again."

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