A staggering £572m was withdrawn from LINK ATMs on Friday 20^th December, making it the busiest day of the year.

However, the figure falls short of the record £730m which was withdrawn from LINK machines on Friday 23 December 2016 and £701m dispensed on Friday 21 December 2018.

Cash machine network LINK which accounts for three quarters of all cash withdrawals, said the decline is likely as shoppers move away from cash payments.

Graham Mott, director of Strategy, LINK, said: “Christmas is traditionally one of the busiest times of year for ATMs, with shoppers hitting the high streets and revelers heading for pubs and clubs for their Christmas parties.

“Consumers’ shopping habits are changing fast with many now buying their presents online or looking for early Black Friday deals. However, cash is still an important part of Christmas spending and everyone can rest assured that the cash machines will be well-stocked for any last-minute presents and to tie people over the festive season.”