The number of ATMs across the country has surpassed 70,000 for the first time, the UK's cash machine network Link has reported.

Their growing number reflects the essential role that cash continues to play within the UK economy, despite the popularity of technology such as contactless cards and digital payments, Link said.

The number of cash machines across the UK reached a new record high of 70,180 in July, tipping over the 70,000 mark for the first time.

Some £11.3 billion was withdrawn from ATMs in July, marking a 4% increase compared with July 2014.

John Howells, chief executive of Link, said: "Despite cards, contactless payments and digital payments becoming ever more popular, our latest figures show that cash still has a very important place in our purses and wallets.

"In fact, 47 million UK adults, or 92% of us, used a cash machine in the UK last year."