AN Altrincham based law firm has estimated that almost three quarters of people across the UK don't have a will.

A study carried out by solicitors McHale and Co found people in the North West and South East of England most likely to have made out a will, and those in Northern Ireland least likely.

The study showed that 73 per cent of all respondents had yet to write a will, despite the fact that the majority of those who took the survey, 57 per cent, said they understand the rules of intestacy, and the implications of not having made one.

Managing partner Andrew McHale said: "More than half the people taking part in the study said they had young dependants - their children.

"And even though more than 72 per cent had decided who'd get their assets, only a fraction had made a will.

"That's a situation highly likely to create conflict and dispute if somebody's told they're getting a substantial benefit, but there's no will to support it."

The study further showed that the most common reason for not having a will was not believing their estate was big enough to make it worthwhile.

Other respondents were more apathetic, with one saying: "I don't care what happens when I'm gone", while another explained, "I can't be bothered."

Mr McHale added: "It’s amazing that so many people lack something that is so important, and could have a huge impact on the lives of others."