Barclaycard is hoping to encourage its customers to repay loans more promptly.

Much has been made of the growing levels of personal debt in the UK and credit card companies have been apportioned some of the blame.

But Barclaycard has pointed out that credit cards are valuable tools for consumers if they are used responsible.

"Credit – used sensibly – can help us manage our finances and live the way we want to," said Keith Coulter, managing director of UK consumer cards and loans at Barclaycard.

"Repayment Rewards is about finding new ways to help customers while encouraging a responsible approach to their borrowing."

Barclaycard was one of the first credit card companies to introduce summary boxes on credit card statements and has recently introduced summary boxes on loan agreements.