JET, Conoco's fuel brand, is advising drivers that avoiding congestion blackspots could not only save them valuable time, but money as well.

"Sharp braking and rapid acceleration all take their toll on fuel consumption levels and even waiting at lights or sitting in traffic jams means you are losing money, as you are effectively getting zero miles to the gallon," said Roy Roley, brand communications manager for Jet.

"ÔSo it makes perfect sense that if you know which spots to avoid, not only should you arrive at your destination a little less stressed, but you are more likely to be on time and marginally better-off financially as well!"

With more than 1,000 hold-ups reported across the UK every day (a figure that has risen by 40 per cent in the last five years), a study by the AA has identified the worst congestion blackspots.

Unsurprisingly, the South East and London have the most congested roads, where the average speed of journeys during the morning rush hour on trunk roads has fallen by 11.4mph.