Visits abroad by UK residents fell by 15% in 2009, the fastest rate since the 1970s, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

A total of 58.6 million trips were made last year, 10.4 million fewer than in 2008.

The number of visitors coming to the UK also fell, but at a slower rate of 6.3%, with 29.9 million overseas residents entering the UK.

Business visitors both to and from the UK showed the steepest fall in numbers.

UK business travel fell by 23%, while 19% fewer business trips were made by non-residents to the UK.