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A money expert was put in the hot seat to answer Brits' most pressing financial questions. Alina Jaffer from Virgin Money stepped up to help ease concerns and provide clear answers to some of the nation's top money worries.

It comes after a poll of 2,000 adults revealed that January is the most financially stressful month of the year, with soaring energy bills causing the greatest concern. A quarter of respondents admitted to feeling anxious about saving money or being caught out by unexpected expenses early in the year. Many people are also stressed about clearing holiday debt and car-related costs, as well as feeling credit card debt.

The research, which was commissioned by Virgin Money, revealed 16% admitted they find it difficult to balance the books following spending over the festive period, with people needing to cut back by an average of £212 in the first three months of the year to help get their finances back on track.

To help ease financial pressures this month many intend to cut back on non-essential spending, use discounts and special offers, and delay bigger purchases until later in the year.

However, these tactics don't seem to be enough to ease the worries as it emerged 43% have lost sleep due to money worries, with those affected experiencing restlessness on an average of three nights per week. On their worst nights, people are losing around three and a half hours of sleep,

Money concerns are negatively impacting people's daily lives too, with 31% feeling stressed or anxious due to them, and 20% feeling overwhelmed.

"Often, vocalising our feelings and worries can do the world of good," said Alina. "A good conversation can also add some perspective and a fresh view which could make all the difference."

When it comes to talking about money worries, 22% admitted hearing others discuss their financial concerns made them feel better about their own, helped them to realise they are not the only ones to face similar challenges and reassured them their feelings are normal.

A one-on-one chat with a trusted friend or family member was the most preferred option or a private conversation with a professional - 51% said their bank was helpful at dealing with their worries - but 26% don't talk about them at all.

The research, carried out via OnePoll.com, comes as Virgin Money continues to encourage people to take money worries off their minds this January.

Its branch teams are trained with the support of mental health charity partners Mind and SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) and are ready to have conversations with anyone who might be struggling or have questions.

As part of Nationwide, the bank has also confirmed all its branches will be staying put until at least 2030, due to the recent extension of its Branch Promise.

Alina added: "If you don't feel you've got someone you can open up to, we have colleagues on hand to listen as we know that financial pressures can weigh heavily at this time of year.

"Our door is open for anyone who needs support, so take money worries off your mind and come and have a chat with one of our colleagues."