Many homeowners will no doubt already be wondering how they will heat their properties this winter as utilities bills are on the rise.

This is according to Consumer Focus, which explained that household finances are already under increased strain.

Its comments come as E.ON announces it will be raising the price of gas by 18.1 per cent, electricity by 11.4 per cent and 15.2 per cent for dual-fuel packages.

Chief executive of Consumer Focus Mike O'Connor commented: "Customers will feel they didn't get the benefit when wholesale costs were low.

"Wholesale costs are around a third lower than their 2008 peak yet consumer prices have reached an all-time high."

He noted that four out of the big six energy suppliers have raised their prices, meaning the average bill now totals around £1,250 per year.

Mr O'Connor called on Ofgem to review the market further and determine whether or not consumers are getting a good deal.