Millions of workers want to quit the rat race for a job in the slow lane by the age of 45, a poll shows.

A survey found more than one in two Britons want a second, more compassionate career for the last two decades of their working life. Animal welfare worker, counsellor, and yoga teacher feature on the list.

But one in four want their bosses to give them the chance to do unrelated charity or voluntary unpaid work in their field.

The survey of 1200 people, for insurance company Norwich Union Life, also found people aiming to quit the rat race have, on average, a nine-year plan, with people planning their second careers from as early as 36.

If the numbers were replicated across the UK it would mean 15m want to quit early.

Of those surveyed, those from Scotland, the north-east and north-west of England said they were the most dissatisfied.

But those in London said they would be most prepared to earn less cash in exchange for fulfilment.