Millions of pounds line British streets
(25 January 2008)

Brits drop approximately £186 million worth of loose change each year, according to Fool.co.uk.

A study conducted by the personal finance website showed that the average person picks up £3.80 each year, while one in 50 people are lucky enough to find over £50.

The research also revealed that seven out of ten respondents would keep paper money if they found it in the street.

David Kuo, head of personal finance at Fool.co.uk, said: "It's quite extraordinary that people chuck away £186 million a year through carelessness. But it seems that one man's loss can be another man's gain.

"Now, no one can prove whether finding a penny and picking it up will bring you good luck. But there are better ways of making £3.80 than combing the streets for a year."

Meanwhile, Fool.co.uk has also stated that consumers should "be selfish" in the upcoming year.

Mr Kuo advised consumers should follow the banks' examples and tighten their finances in order to cope with a recession.