Britons have been forced to tighten their spending as a result of increasing bills and high levels of debt, it has been suggested.

A study by Birmingham Midshires into the saving habits of the UK has shown an increased number of people are putting money aside.

However, many have been forced to raid their savings in order to make ends meet, the organisation continued.

Rachel Thrussell, head of savings at Moneyfacts.co.uk, admitted: "The last year has seen many families finances stretched, with many having to dip into their savings to get by."

Figures compiled by financial advice charity Credit Action show that by the end of last year, total personal debt in the UK stood at £1,409 billion.

This is an increase of £120 billion on the previous year and suggests British debt is increasing by £1 million every five minutes.

UK adults pay almost £260 million a day in interest alone, Credit Action notes.