Terrorism is the fastest-growing fear among Britons, a survey has found.

The fear of a terrorist attack has risen most markedly in the Direct Line Hopes and Fears Index, from 14th place six months ago to the fifth greatest fear for the next six months.

Almost a quarter (23%) of Britons ranked terrorism as one of their primary concerns.

Those surveyed said their greatest fear was for their health and the health of their loved ones (46%), followed by making ends meet (27%), inflation and the standard of living (both 26%).

Britons' top hopes for the next six months were an improved financial situation (43%) and good health (43%), with more than a third (36%) hoping to lose weight.

Psychotherapist and health writer Christine Webber said: "It's interesting how much the index has altered in the past six months.

"However, the survey shows that ill health still tops the fear index.

"After all, no matter how much money you have, if you have poor health, or someone close to you is ill, your blooming bank balance is of little consolation.

"But what does seem highly significant to me is that seven of the top 10 fears are about money and employment, which would suggest that the upward trend in the country's economy has, so far, not resulted in a sense of solvency or security for the average person.

"It's also a sad reflection of our times that fear of terrorism figures much more highly for British adults than it did just a few months ago."

:: Opinium Research surveyed 2,002 adults online between August 29 and September 1.