More money please

According to the latest headline-grabbing research released by a publicity-hungry insurance firm, we all need more money

We would all like another £7,000 to feel happy, research has claimed.

Isn't that one of the most pointless claims ever? Of course we would all like some more money - no-one is exactly going to turn it down if they are offered it are they?

In other news, I have heard reports of a bear emptying its bowels in the woods recently and also that the Pope is Catholic.

But let me delve deeper into this wondrous piece of research - aptly named 'Times of our Lives' - by insurance giant Aviva - yes that firm with the irritating adverts of the non-singing variety. "Which one?" I hear you cry.

On average we all would like an extra £7,236 a year before tax to be really happy, the research claims, meaning most people face a monthly gap of £411 between their current income and what they feel would give them a more comfortable life.

Unsurprisingly the most cash-strapped age group are those aged between 25 and 34 who want an additional £12,003 a year (£627 a month) to live the life they dream of.

Next in the 'me, me, me' line are 35-44 year olds who would like around £600 extra a month - equal to £10,762 a year. This is because of increased debts such as mortgages, paying for children and other sundries most normal people incur.

Over 65s are a little more modest, settling for an extra £380 a year (£23 a month after tax). Bless.

But in the words of Sir Mick Jagger: "You can't always get what you want."

Most of us will be lucky to get a below inflation payrise this year. And the next. And the one after that. It is called the 'real world'.

Remind me to film my boss' face and send the clip to Aviva when I sit down with him and demand an extra £10,762 this year.

Maybe my reader(s) will suggest where I can deposit said video clip.