Brits are raiding their savings to pay for holidays and weekend breaks, according to a survey by Birmingham Midshires.

People aged 45 to 54 were the worst offenders, with 24% saying they had dipped into their savings for a trip.

Feeling the pinch of three interest rate rises this year, Brits have withdrawn an average of £400 for various reasons in the last three months – a 14% increase on the last three months of last year.

Londoners took out the most money, on average £716 each, while northerners took out just £242.

Director of savings operations at Birmingham Midshires said: “While homeowners are feeling the pressures following Bank of England rate decisions, there has never been a better time for people to save. Interest rates at a six-year high mean great returns for savers, whatever amount you put away.”