More than half of people estimate they spend more during British Summer Time than in the winter – paying an average of £154 more each month.

A new report says, with the clocks having now gone forward, the lighter evenings could tempt more people into loosening their purse strings.

Meeting up with friends, feeling there was more to do in the summer, and generally feeling happier as the weather gets warmer were all factors which people said could encourage them to spend more, the survey of 1,300 people found.

Jacqueline Dewey, managing director at credit report provider Noddle, which commissioned the research, said: 'It's important to keep a close eye on your bank balance and not slip into relying on credit to bridge the gap between paydays over the next few months.

'Make a budget now to see you through the summer, accounting for the extra spend.

'Using your credit card a small amount each month is healthy for your credit score, but if you start to overspend or miss payments, this can have a detrimental effect on your score, making it harder to get credit when you need it for larger items like a mortgage or car.'

Noddle suggests saving up some cash for summer trips out and holidays, for example by making lunch at home, cutting down on takeaways or walking instead of using public transport.