The BBC's Kim Catcheside: "1000 youngsters were questioned"

The NOP Research Group poll of 1,000 children aged between seven and 16 also said that when they told someone they had been bullied, nothing happened to those responsible in 22% of cases .

Bullying seemed to more prevalent among younger children, with 27% of seven to 12-year-olds claiming to have been bullied in the past six months, compared with 8% of 13 to 16-year-olds.

Although the findings revealed little difference between the proportions of boys and girls who suffer bullying, girls were more likely to tell someone. More than six in 10 girls would tell their parents, compared with 55% of boys.

'Complaints ignored'

Barbie Clarke, director of NOP Family, said the survey results supported claims that bullying was a reality for many children in the UK.

"Our wider research shows that peer pressure is clearly a key means of intimidation for children as young as seven-years-old," she said.

"The fact that a significant proportion of complaints seem to be ignored is of particular concern.

"Both parents and teachers need to be more aware of and responsive to this problem if the situation is to improve."

Bullies or bullied children who would like to talk to someone in confidence can call Childline on (0800) 1111

Parents looking for advice can call Parentline on (01702) 559900