MORE than two-thirds of us have not managed to use any of our tax-free savings allowances -- of £7,000 -- so far this tax year.

The latest findings from the Alliance & Leicester Wealth Tracker Index found only 16 per cent of UK citizens have invested in an ISA since April, 2003.

And, of those who have, the average investment stands at just £456.61, leaving more than £6,500 of their ISA allowance available.

Sarah Whitehead, product manager for investments at Alliance and Leicester, said: "With the end of the tax year fast approaching it is interesting to see how much is being invested in ISAs, which enable people to save up to £7,000 tax efficiently each tax year.

"Rather than leaving things to the last minute, people should consider avoiding the rush at the end of the tax year and make the most of their valuable ISA allowance now, ensuring that their hard earned savings are sheltered from the tax-man."