There has been a 60% increase in the amount of cars being imported into Ireland since the UK voted to leave the EU in June, year-on-year, according to global payments company TransferMate.

The Kilkenny-based currency exchange specialist has reported that it is dealing with a huge influx in activity in the car import market since the Brexit decision. 

With the sterling now 21% weaker than the same time last year, it has said that an Irish family will save more than €3,000 on a 2015 Volkswagen Passat, and even more for higher-end cars. 

TranserMate is advising those considering buying cars from the UK to find out whether there is outstanding finance due on the car, if it has been previously damaged, the possibility it is a stolen vehicle, has clocked mileage and the the vehicle identity before parting with their money. 

Company co-founder Barry Dowling said:

"A quick motor check online will ensure that there has been no major accident reported hiding potential damage and most importantly that there is no finance owed.

"Once that is done, the next step is a trip over to see the car and ensure that you have actually seen it physically. A mistake Irish buyers often make is to simply rely on a photo and that is taking on unnecessary risk."