Midlife crisis costs £2bn

You could always tell when a man was approaching his 40th birthday when he splashed out on a sports car, donned a medallion or shaved off his moustache.

But, these days, his mid-life crisis is more likely to involve plastic surgery, career breaks and counselling.

Britain's age-conscious men now feel under the same pressure as women to stay youthful and keep their looks.

They spend £2billion a year trying to hold back the years and hold up their stomachs, a new study shows.

Worries about health, job security and losing their looks lead them to spend almost £3,000 when they hit 40.

Top of the shopping list is a personal trainer or gym membership, a favourite with 54 per cent of the 500 men asked.

Nearly half would opt for a round-theworld-trip, while 39 per cent fancy some designer clothing, Virgin Money found. One in four would take a career break.

The midlife crisis is coming earlier because three-quarters of men say they are expected to achieve far more at a younger age.

They also worry more about their appearance and mental health. A fifth would consider cosmetic treatments, one in eight plastic surgery and 18 per cent would consult a psychiatrist .

'Trading up to a younger model - whether a sports car or a partner - used to be the first sign of a male mid-life crisis,' said Virgin Money's Erica Bell.

'But it seems men now are prepared to splash out lots of money to change more than just their image.'