Despite the inflation rate falling generally, people aged over 60 are currently facing rates ten times higher.

Pensioners typically spend more of their money on daily essential items that have increased the most in price, and even though inflation may be decreasing, pensioners living on low fixed incomes are still likely to struggle.

Gordon Lishman, director general of Age Concern, says, ‘As younger people enjoy the benefits of the lowest levels of inflation for decades, older people still find much of their income is swallowed up by high food and fuel bills, forcing many to make drastic cut-backs.

‘Even the five per cent pension up-rating this April intended to help pensioners won't be enough to keep up with the inflation increases seen so far this year for anyone over 70.’