Car maker Ford has recalled 78,500 of its Ka model worldwide because of a fault in the braking system.

In the UK, Ford is recalling 31,000 Ka vehicles produced between 12 January and 29 June last year.

The company warned drivers that the hose which carries fluid to the front brakes could become loose, a fault which would lead to a gradual loss of braking.

It urged drivers to take their car to a garage for the system to be repaired.

Tyre concerns

News of the fault followed reports that Continental Tire North America had recalled more than 500,000 tyres on Ford sports cars, after some of them lost their tread.

The tyres were installed on Ford Expedition and Ford Navigator vehicles between 2000 and 2001 and the company said the recall could cost up to $20m .

The recall was prompted by an investigation, after both German group Continental and Ford noticed a significant increase in property damage and personal injury claims in April.