The Bible is the work of literature that most people would like to own the copyright to, according to a survey by Marks & Clerk, patent and trade mark attorneys.

Asked which work of literature or music they would most like to own the copyright to, respondents put the Beatles hits in second place, followed by Shakespeare, Harry Potter and fifth, the works of Beethoven.

Mr Julian Asquith, Partner at Marks & Clerk, patent lawyers in Oxford, said: "In general, copyright only lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years. Alternatively, it could last for 70 years from the first publication of the protected work.

"So while it would be impossible today for someone to own the copyright to the Bible or the works of Shakespeare, it is important for anyone writing something new to protect their work.

"If a writer wishes to protect a book or script, there are some golden rules. Firstly, when submitting a script, a good method of protection is to insist on an obligation of confidentiality.

"Secondly, on presenting an idea for a TV show or a book, you need to have as much written down as possible.

You need to get a lot down on paper if you want to be the next J K Rowling, and not just rely on a good idea."