The impact of the pandemic has seen a surge in the number of people looking to take early retirement, a financial advisor in the county says.

Two years of working from home and travel restrictions has seen more people adopt what experts describe as a 'carpe diem' mentality.

Canterbury-based Pharon Independent Financial Advisers says it has seen a sharp rise in enquiries from those looking to retire early, backing up a recent survey by Aviva which revealed a quarter of those quizzed planned to retire at 60 - some six years before the current state pension age. One in five planned to call it a day at 55.

Nick O’Shea, director at Pharon IFA, said: “Financial security is obviously a major factor in making this decision a reality and in 2021 we spoke to more people than ever before about plans to retire earlier.

"The pandemic has sparked a 'carpe diem' mentality leading many people to consider early retirement, granting them the freedom to enjoy travel, leisure and time with loved ones while they are fit and healthy. The prospect of returning to the office full-time and enduring long daily commutes means retirement planning will remain a primary reason for people to assess their finances.

“We are starting to see how the pandemic is affecting long-term personal finance plans and how it has impacted investors’ motivations. It is encouraging to see that more people are seeking bespoke advice that reflects their individual goals and personal needs."

Pharon's founder and chairman, Roger O'Shea, died last year with the firm passing to his two sons, Nick and Andy.