Britons do not have as strong savings habits as they should despite positive research figures, one building society warns.

Research by National Savings & Investments shows that regular savers are more committed to putting money aside during the recession, but Nationwide claims that the gap between savers and non-savers is getting wider.

It says there is a long way to go before Brits will be saving enough, with its survey suggesting nearly two-thirds admit to saving less than they need.

Just under a quarter say they save enough, suggesting that better debt management is needed by the majority of Brits.

The figures also warn that the savings situation for many could get worse, with nearly a quarter expecting to be saving less in six months’ time than they do now.

Nationwide director for savings and mortgages Andy McQueen comments: "There seems to be a divide between those that have saved, continue to save and increase the amount they save and those that have not saved, do not save and have no means to save."