Experts at the Priory, which normally deals with drug or alcohol addictions, say that text addiction is just as big a problem as gambling addiction.

Some people can spend up to seven hours every day texting their friends, and one man in Denmark nearly lost all his money sending messages on his mobile.

Centres will be trying to cure texters in London, Hampshire and Glasgow.

Ken Stewart, from the Priory, said the texters might have "withdrawal symptoms" when their phones are taken away from them.