HALF of those living in Scotland expect to retire before the age of

60, but a clear majority would like to do so.

An annual poll carried out by Gallup and published by Abbey National

Life has revealed that 71% of Scots would like to retire before 60, but

only 51% believe this will be practical.

Almost 60% of women think they will finish working before 60, compared

to only 40% of men.

These expectations may be unduly optimistic, according to Abbey

National. Only 19% of Scots have a personal pension, compared to 24% in

the Midlands and Wales, while 36% have a company pension compared to 45%

in the south.