More than half of UK mortgage holders worry about their repayments at least once a month, research from L&C Mortgages has found.

The mortgage was named as the monthly expense causing the greatest financial pressure by 42% of borrowers, compared with 20% who cited food shopping and 17% who pointed to energy bills.

The research found that 52% of mortgage holders worried about their payments at least monthly, while nearly one in five said they had concerns every week.

Almost half of those surveyed paid between £500 and £999 a month towards their mortgage. A further 39% paid £1,000 or more, including 12% whose monthly repayments were at least £1,500.

Asked what they would do if their mortgage payments were covered for six months, more than 85% said they would save the money and 10% said they would spend it.

L&C has launched a promotion offering to cover one borrower’s mortgage payments for six months, worth up to £7,665.

David Hollingworth, associate director at L&C Mortgages, said: “With so much uncertainty and volatility, household finances are under pressure.

“With concern over cost of living rises and the chunk of disposable income taken up by mortgage payments, it’s perhaps no surprise that they are top of the financial worry list for many mortgage holders.

“The good news is that there are often steps borrowers can take to reduce their monthly payments or better manage their mortgage costs. Reviewing your deal before it ends and understanding the options available could make a meaningful difference.”