Payment holidays on credit cards, car finance, personal loans and pawned goods have been extended ahead of tougher coronavirus restrictions.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) said customers who had not yet deferred a payment could now request one for up to six months.

Those with short-term credit such as payday loans can defer for one month.

“It is important that consumer credit customers who can afford to do so continue to make repayments,” it said.

“Borrowers should only take up this support if they need it.”