Diesel car owners have witnessed a considerable rise in the cost of fuel during the last 12 months, new figures published as part of the RAC's latest Fuel Watch report have shown.

The data revealed how the impact of weakness in the pound in forex markets, coupled with rising oil costs, has led to a hike in the average price of fuel for UK drivers over the last year.

According to the body's findings, diesel drivers are now spending an average of £10 more to fill their tank than they did at this time in 2016.

This dramatic rise in costs has been sparked by a major recovery in the price of Brent crude, which rose from just $27 per barrel in January last year to now stand at more than $56.

At the same time, the value of the pound has dropped by more than 20 per cent against the US dollar since the UK voted to leave the EU in June last year.

RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams stated: "We are optimistic that prices will not increase … in January based on what's going on with oil and wholesale fuel now, but if in the months ahead the barrel price was to get nearer to $60 and the pound was to weaken further then that would be the worst possible combination for motorists."

Ben Robb, brand manager at The Fuelcard People, adds: "Fuel costs continue to be a major expense for all road users. However, motorists keen to save on the cost of fuel can do just that when they sign up for an account with The Fuelcard People."