Croydon residents are burdened by some of the highest levels of personal debt in the country, research has suggested.

The borough's average resident owes £3,471, the fourth largest sum in the UK, according to new figures.

Those living in London struggled the most with money problems, research by debt collection firm 1st Credit found. 

It said Southall residents are most in debt, owing £3,617 on average. 

The national average is £2,750.

Bob Kingdon, customer services chief at 1st Credit, said: "While there are all sorts of reasons why people struggle to repay their debts, failing to gain control of personal finances is a problem faced by people all over the UK."