People who have bought Xmas hampers for loved ones may have used a cheque to pay for them, as a new survey has revealed 50 per cent of Brits have written one in the last month.

According to the poll by Which?, 76 per cent of respondents admitted they have utilised the form of payment at least once in the last 12 months.

Chief executive of the organisation Peter Vicary-Smith said although the use of cheques is in decline, millions of people still use them every year.

"Banks must ensure sure that alternative payment methods that all consumers are comfortable with are in place before cheques are consigned to the scrapheap."

Those who use cheques to purchase gift hampers will no longer be able to do so as of 2018, as they are being phased out.

The poll revealed that most individuals will instead use cash and direct debit agreements to pay for goods.

Earlier this week, associate director of Credit Action Joanna Parsley advised people to draw up a budget so they do not overspend during the festive period.