British women are increasingly taking the reins when it comes to household finances, a new survey claims.

Over one in three women in the UK now control the purse strings in their home but not all of their husbands are aware that their traditional role has been usurped, according to mortgage lender First Active.

But 36 per cent of women are also a little on the ditzy side when it comes to managing the household budget, unaware of the rate they are paying on their mortgage and likely to suffer a shock when their bank statement appears on their door step.

In comparison, 72 per cent of men know exactly how much they are paying out each month.

Many women are also struggling to meet monthly bills with 44 per cent saying their money situation is proving something of a juggling act. But 22 per cent say their finances are all in order and problem free.

David Jones, managing director at First Active, said that homeowners need to pay close attention to their mortgage repayments to keep control of their finances.

"Whatever type of person you are, your mortgage is usually the largest monthly outgoing. So it’s the first place people should start when they are looking to save money," he said.