UK parents are set to spend £492 entertaining their children this summer, a 26 per cent increase on last year.

The Post Office’s annual Parents’ Summer Spending Report examines the costs and concerns of families during the looming summer holidays.

Its research says: o Parents will spend an average £66 on other people’s children, £119 on petrol and a further £106 on childcare o Almost two thirds (58%) of parents worry about the cost of entertaining their children o 46% feel under pressure to keep up with other parents’ spending o Almost half (47%) expect the bulk of money will be spent on admission for various attractions, including theme parks and museums o One in ten would miss bill payments in order to cover costs.