Consumers should never ignore their credit card debts, one sector commentator has advised.

Joanne Garcia, head of credit cards at a price comparison website, made her remarks as the site published new research which showed that more than three-quarters (77 per cent) of people in their early 50s are accepted straight away when applying for credit.

Conversely, 34 per cent of people in their early 20s are refused credit - either immediately or after being referred - when they apply.

Ms Garcia said that while people may have different experiences of credit, they should all remain vigilant in the management of their debts.

"Those with existing balances should make every effort to clear them as soon as possible. Ignoring the debt, resulting in closure of an account by the credit card company, is not advisable," she concluded.