High earners leaving rest behind

The survey looked at 360 different occupations

The gap between Britain's highest earners and those on an average wage is growing wider, a survey suggests.

Today's top paid employees receive nearly six times more than the average worker, whereas 10 years ago they earned four times as much.

And for a select few, their pay has shot up by 150%, with workers at the other end of the scale trailing far behind.

The research was conducted by the Halifax Bank using data from the Office for National Statistics.

Salaries doubled

Those receiving the biggest pay rises in the past 10 years are barristers and professional athletes.

Their salaries have more than doubled, the research revealed.

Since 1992 professional athletes' pay has gone from an average £11,000 to more than £26,000 - a 161% increase.

High earners include:

Barristers

Insurance underwriters

Professional athletes

Judges

Doctors

Company general managers

Barristers' salaries have increased by 155% to £78,549, the Halifax states.

At the other end of the pay scale dispensing opticians and playgroup leaders have experienced a drop in pay of 11% and 10% respectively.

Little change

Statistical data on 360 occupations was examined in the survey, which found general managers of large companies came out best.

They earned an average £110,341 a year, followed by barristers and senior civil servants.

The research confirms the widespread perception that key public sector workers have lost out in recent years

Martin Ellis, Halifax

Also in the top 10 were doctors, pilots, management consultants, insurance underwriters and judges

Those employed in childcare came out as the worst paid, bringing home an average annual salary of just £3,685.

Marin Ellis, Martin Ellis, group economist at Halifax said had been little change in the best-paid jobs over the past 10 years.

Today the 17 best paid occupations all have earnings that are at least twice the average wage of £19,266.

Mr Ellis added: "The research confirms the widespread perception that key public sector workers have lost out in recent years."