Money worries are the greatest strain on relationships for those living in London, new research has found.

An annual study of more than 6,000 people in the UK, published by charity Relate, found 53% of people in London said money worries were a big strain on their relationships.

UK-wide figures also showed those with children are far more likely to cite money worries as one of the biggest burdens on their relationships.

The study also found almost one in 10 people living in London said they have no close friends and 49% said sharing problems was one of the most important factors in a relationship.

Some 28% of people surveyed said they had cheated on their partner, while one in four people said they had experienced the breakdown of their parents' relationship.

Ewan Malcolm from Relate London North West said: “This study provides a unique insight into the state of the nation’s relationships.

"It shows that, despite the improving economic climate, money worries still loom large for many – particularly those with children.

“Relationships are the lifeblood of a thriving society, meaning that supporting strong relationships should be everybody’s business.

“We suggest that anyone worried about the impact of financial pressures on their relationships opens up about what’s happening and gets some support if needed.”