Large numbers of Britons have already spent their wages by the 20th of every month, it has been revealed, with many opting for a live for today attitude they cannot afford.

The research, conducted by the Co-operative Bank Current Accounts, shows over half of people’s wages are generally spent during the first 11 days of receiving it, usually on shopping trips and nights out.

John Barker, head of current accounts at the Co-operative Bank, says: "The research shows that many people are still looking to go out spending straight after being paid every month, but with the current economic downturn, it clearly leads to a much more difficult time later when many cannot get their wages to stretch until they are next paid."

He adds that keeping spending under control is more important than ever during the economic downturn, with people needing to keep an eye on their bank accounts.

A survey from Fairinvestment.co.uk recently discovered that the average amount saved each month is £128, a fall of more than £10 compared to the £138.64 that people said they saved each month back in August last year.