More than 70 per cent of consumers in Wales are worried about future energy price rises as more people admit they are struggling to pay their bills.

According to research released today by Consumer Focus Wales, at least one third of people interviewed said energy bills were more of a worry than a few years ago, with Valleys residents finding energy bills the biggest burden.

The research also found that nearly one in 10 people had fallen behind with their energy bill payments this year, with that figure rising to closer to one in seven among young people.

Lindsey Kearton, policy manager at Consumer Focus Wales, said: "These findings are not surprising. During 2011 consumer experienced the biggest proportional increases in their energy bills for three years.

"Households connected to the mains gas network saw their energy bills rise by over 21 per cent on average, from £1,069 per year to £1,273.

"We urge anyone struggling to pay their bill to contact their energy firm as soon as possible. The sooner you get in touch the less chance there is for debts to build and become harder to repay."

For those concerned about their energy bills you can contact the Home Heat Helpline on 0800336699 for free advice.