The number of 4x4 vehicles on UK roads has apparently doubled in the past 10 years, according to a car insurance provider.

The ‘Chelsea Tractors’ as they are also known, were found to have increased by 10 per cent over the last year, while regional analysis from the Women’s car insurance specialist, Diamond have shown that eight of the top 10 postcodes with the highest number of 4x4s were in south-east England.

It was also noted that the trend could have an effect on the car insurance sector, because of the safety concerns some campaigners have about the vehicles.

4x4s tend to cause more damage to their surroundings, if they are involved in a collision as they are larger and heavier than the average vehicle - and are therefore generally more costly to insure.

Diamond’s managing director, Sian Lewis said: "I've definitely noticed an increase in the number of 4x4s on the road, but was really surprised to see that the number had increased so greatly. The south-east certainly seems to be 4x4 central."

She also added: "When it comes to the occupations, unsurprisingly farmers are the most likely to own a 4x4, however, they're followed by child minders and property developers. Also in the top ten are publicans, stockbrokers and housewives."