'Not paying off debt' is biggest regret

MORE than half of Britons say their biggest financial regret is not paying off more of their debts during 2010, according to a survey out today.

Not saving enough for their retirement was the biggest concern for about 37 per cent of respondents to a study conducted by First Direct, HSBC's online bank.

Some 18 per cent thought they had spent too much in the run-up to Christmas, with 14 per cent saying they spent too much on their partner and 12 per cent believing they had splashed out more than they should have on holidays.

Richard Brown, senior savings product manager at First Direct, warned: "Ensuring that you plan ahead with your finances is extremely important and starting to save for retirement as early as possible allows a better standard of living later on. The new year is the ideal time to reflect on your financial habits."