More than two thirds of Britain's motorists have cut the number of journeys they make by car because of the spiralling cost of petrol.

An exclusive survey for The Times reveals that the dramatic rise in pump prices over the past year has forced households to alter their lifestyle fundamentally.

Nearly a third are no longer driving to the local shops, and 29 per cent have cut out visits to out-of-town retail parks. Nearly one in four is no longer using the car on the school run.

The survey, conducted by Populus, shows that 42 per cent of the population blame the Government for the high cost of fuel, which hit a record of nearly £6 a gallon for diesel on Monday. Only 16 per cent blame the actions of Opec, the cartel of oil producing countries.

The findings represent the first clear sign that cash-strapped families are resorting to leaving the car in the garage as they juggle higher energy bills, mortgage payments and the rising cost of food.

Sir Stuart Rose, the Marks & Spencer chief executive, said two weeks ago that there was growing evidence that out-of-town stores were suffering as customers decided to walk to stores closer to home.

Footfall at Britain's main out-of-town shopping centres, such as Bluewater, Lakeside and the Metro Centre, was down nearly 7 per cent on a year ago in May.

Luke Bosdet, AA public affairs spokesman, said: “This survey shows that people are clearly feeling the pinch. Families have been cutting back in other areas, but we are now getting to the stage where the only option they have is to reduce their car use full stop.

“This will affect other parts of the economy as they spend less on the high street and less on holidays in the UK.”

Petrol prices have surged in the past year as the global cost of oil soars towards $150 a barrel. Diesel is 35 per cent more expensive than a year ago at 131.94p a litre - nearly £6 a gallon - with unleaded up 22 per cent at an average of 118.57p a litre. Motorists are spending £14.3 million more each day at the pump than a year ago.

The monthly Populus survey shows that the high cost of fuel has led to a big fall in the number of people who would consider a diesel model when buying a new car - from 21 per cent a year ago to 11 per cent. Fuel efficiency is the biggest factor.

More than 36 per cent of those questioned said that price was by far the most important factor when choosing a new car, above environmental credentials, or practical requirements.

About 55 per cent of those questioned said they would still try to choose an ethical and environmental product, even if it meant paying a little extra - the lowest figure recorded by Populus over the past year.

Honda has been voted as the car manufacturer thought to be doing most to minimise the environmental impact of driving, reflecting the success of the Civic and the Japanese giant's high-profile marketing.

Toyota, home to the Prius, the hybrid car popular with environmentally conscious celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Cameron Diaz, is ranked second.

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