Visa saw spending levels on its cards in the UK rise sharply over the Easter weekend compared to last year.

Britons spent £210m ($352m) in total between Good Friday and Easter Monday, representing a 17% increase on the same time last year.

Visa has attributed the high spend to DIY spending, which it said it currently 10% higher on its cards than it was at the same time last year. The company also said customers were investing in a booming housing market.

Natasha Toothill, of Visa Europe, said: "The strong DIY spend over Easter signals two things: the continued overall recovery in consumer confidence and spending.

"What’s more it is further evidence of homeowners investing in their properties to capitalise on a buoyant housing market."

Spending peaked on Easter Saturday, with more than £70m spent on Visa cards on that day alone.

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There was also an 11% rise in the amount spent on Easter Monday.

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