Over a quarter of Christians surveyed over the holiday period have told Premier Radio their Christmases were crippled by debt.

Premier Life, the Christian support branch of Premier Media Group, has expressed concern over the statistics.

"As soon as one realises that one is in debt and meeting the next bill is impossible then help needs to be sought," said Jonathan Clark, Manager of Premier Life.

"Burying one's head in the sand does not make it go away, it simply delays the inevitable of having to take steps to deal with it and the longer the delay then the more likely the worsening of the consequences."

Premier Life is encouraging people with money worries to call Lifeline, a confidential Christian telephone help line for those who need to discuss the stresses of debt, or any other troubles. Lifeline are also able to refer callers to other organisations to help them get personal and business debt under control.

"Action needs to be taken and the sooner it taken the more chance there is of finding a way out of the problems," continued Mr Clark. "Christians are not immune to these problems and they and their churches and ministers need to be honest and open that it does happen and when it happens help is needed now."

Excluding mortgages, the average household debt in the UK stands at £9,600. This increases to over £21,000 if the average is based on the number of households who actually have some form of unsecured loan, according to Credit Action.

"The message we're sending out this New Year is seek help about your debt," Chief Executive of Premier Christian Media, Peter Kerridge said. "Christians struggling with debt should speak up and ask for help - both spiritual and practical. Premier Lifeline can offer prayer as well as connecting Christians with trustworthy organisations that can help them battle debt."

Lifeline is available via phone on 08456-52-52-52 (lo-call rate) 9am - Midnight (Mon-Sun); and via email at lifeline@premier.org.uk 9am - 5pm (Mon-Fri).