More than half a million Britons are now vegans, a survey has revealed.

The dramatic rise in those sticking to the strict no-meat, fish or dairy diet – up 247 per cent from 150,000 a decade ago – has been put down to more people trying for a healthy lifestyle and growing concerns about the treatment of animals by the food industry.

Young people were largely behind the increase, with 42 per cent of all vegans aged 15 to 34, according to the research by Ipsos MORI and The Vegan Society in partnership with Vegan Life magazine. It found there were 521,000 vegans across Britain and 1.68million vegetarians.

The dramatic rise in those sticking to the strict no-meat, fish or dairy diet – up 247 per cent from 150,000 a decade ago (file picture)

Two time world boxing champion David Haye became a vegan for the health benefits and there is a growing list of elite meat-free athletes, including squash champion James Willstrop, Olympic cyclist Lizzie Armitstead and former footballer Phil Neville.

The research commissioned by The Vegan Society in partnership with Vegan Life magazine showed 42 per cent all vegans are aged 15-34. Just 14 per cent who are aged over 65.

Chief executive of The Vegan Society Jasmijn de Boo said: 'To have over half a million vegans in Britain is fantastic.

'More people than ever are now acting upon the health and environmental benefits of veganism, and finding out what really goes on in the meat and dairy industries and deciding they do not want to contribute to the pain and suffering of animals.'

The survey also found that nearly half of vegetarians who are not vegan would like to reduce their consumption animal products.

This equates to 521,000 people across Britain, meaning the popularity of veganism is set to rise further.

More than 850,000 of vegetarians and vegans also avoid leather, wool and other animal products.

The vast majority of vegans live in urban or suburban areas - 88 per cent - compared with rural areas - just 12 per cent.

Some 22 per cent of Britain's vegans live in London - more than any other region.

The survey also found that nearly half of vegetarians who are not vegan would like to reduce their consumption animal products (file picture)

Vegan Life magazine publishing director Keith Coomber said: 'The public perception of veganism is changing fast. It's no longer an extreme lifestyle.

'It's easy and accessible and you can walk into any supermarket and be confronted by a huge range of dairy-free milks and other vegan-friendly products.

'As consumers become more savvy about the reality of the farming industry, and the health implications of meat and dairy products, this boom will only continue."

While Ms De Boo added: 'The reasons behind the rise of veganism are numerous.

'The positive portrayal in the media has contributed to its changing image and documentaries on the shocking realities and consequences of animal agriculture have gained prominence.

'Delicious-looking vegan recipes have multiplied online and on social media as society has becomes increasingly health-conscious and top vegan athletes keep proving that you can be fit and healthy.