UK employees received an average 13% pay rise in 2004, according to new figures.

Research by PayFinder.com, the salary comparison website, revealed that the average salary in 2004 was £27,723, a 13% rise on £24,489 in 2003.

Of the top 20 sectors, retail and wholesale employees enjoyed a 28% pay increase, from just under £19,000 last year to £24,245. Just behind was government and politics, which saw a 26% increase to £27,323, and third was transport rising 23% to £28,490.

Finance and banking, usually among the highest earning sectors, saw more modest rises of 5% and 0.4% respectively.

* Check how your salary compares at the paywizard.org.