DRIVERS in Stirling and the wider central region have been hit the hardest by accelerating insurance prices, according to a price comparison service.

A survey for confused.com revealed the average yearly insurance cost in central Scotland for a vehicle is expected to sky-rocket to £681 this year, an increase of £43 compared to 2018.

And the price comparison website says current prices are drifting closer to the highest on record.

Suffering the most this quarter were female drivers aged 17-20, who saw the steepest annual increase, an eye-watering £124 or nine per cent in 12 months.

Amanda Stretton, motoring editor at confused.com, said: "We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it seems car insurance prices across Scotland are really starting to accelerate.

"In fact, we're seeing some of the steepest price hikes in 12 months.

"We should be shopping around for the best deal, whether we are a new driver or renewing for the tenth year, as there's always another insurer out there willing to offer us a better deal.

"Please don't pay more than you have to – take a few minutes to check your renewal letter and get a cheaper price."