The cost of gas and electricity in the UK looks set to increase, much to the disappointment of one price comparison website.

Lisa Greenfield, energy analyst at Confused.com, said that the end of cheap rates being offered by several providers was "depressing news for householders".

She explained that the cancellation of these options by companies such as E.ON and EDF, coupled with the rising cost of wholesale energy, was an "ominous sign" that prices were set to rise.

Ms Greenfield suggested that those who wanted to beat this increase could try heading online and finding a fixed-rate deal before they are withdrawn by the providers, as there are still some competitively priced deals out there.

Confused.com recently suggested that consumers who use their credit cards to their advantage could pick up a variety of free rewards if they are careful with how they use them, including shopping vouchers and air miles.