Martin Lewis has admitted he was left “near tears” following an encounter on the latest episode of The Martin Lewis Money Show on ITV.

The Money Saving Expert founder was left “shaking” when he met a single mother who was struggling to pay her energy bills after her partner died from Covid-19.

The cash-saving guru has warned households can expect to take a “seismic” hit to their energy bills which could force some to decide whether to eat or heat their homes, according to a consumer expert.

Martin Lewis said the Government must intervene now to avoid a crisis in the energy market.

Martin Lewis ‘near tears’ speaking to single mum on ITV

In Thursday’s instalment of his show Mr Lewis discussed the rising cost of energy bills across the UK and predicted a price cap increase of 51% by April 2022.

Speaking to Sara, from Essex, Lewis advised it would be wise for the “vast majority” of viewers to stick to their current deal.

He said: “These are my best guesses. There is no firm answer. Sara, does that help? I know it doesn’t comfort, but at least do you understand?”

He added: “I wish you all the best in what has been a bad time for you. I’m so sorry I couldn’t give you something more.”

Martin Lewis responds to backlash on social media

The encounter affected the consumer champion who took to social media to call for intervention.

He said: I feel near tears after doing my show. I started doing what I do out of a passion for financial justice & providing solutions.

“To be unable to help a single mum who lost her partner in covid afford her energy bills leaves me feeling impotent.

“I'm shaking Intervention is needed.”

His tweet led to calls for him to pay the energy bill for the customer.

In frustration, Mr Lewis replied: “A few ‘ur rich, pay her bloody energy bill’ replies. This isn’t about 1 person, it’s a totem for millions who’ll be in fuel poverty.

“Instead I try to give answers, lobby for change, & put my money where my mouth is this way.”