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More than a third of all Britons will be spending less this Valentine's Day than in previous years to save money – a sad, but sensible option as people choose to save rather than spend.

Abbey has found that only one in 10 cash-strapped Cupids are still planning to eat out but are hoping to reduce the cost of the meal by using a two for one meal deal voucher, while 9 per cent admit they will be heading out for a meal on 13th or 15th February to avoid paying inflated restaurant prices on 14th. Brits will also cut down on flowers, gifts and cards in an attempt to curb spending.

Abbey says: "Cash-strapped Britons will be hoping that it's still the thought that counts as they turn to more cost-effective ways to show their love this Valentine's Day. But while romance may be the latest casualty of the credit crunch, more than half of us are still planning to celebrate Valentine's Day this year, proving that romance is down but not out by cooking a meal at home this year to save money."

It might be tough to cut down on spending when it's for you one you love, but if you have debt problems and are struggling to get by financially you have to cut down everywhere you can.

If you are worried about finances, this might be a good time to talk to your partner. Don't shy away from finance problems, and don't hide things that would be much better handled out in the open. Only by sharing financial problems will you be able to get through them, together.

As well as being open with your partner, be open with an adviser. You will find that when you do air your problems, and discuss what is going wrong with an adviser they will not seem so bad. You will surely be offered options in finance, you will be able to put together a viable plan of action and will be able to enjoy life a little more.

SOURCE: Abbey, 13/02/09

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