NATIONWIDE’S chief executive received more than £200,000 in benefits last year.

Joe Garner’s benefits package, including private medical care and use of a chauffer, was worth £36,000 more than the previous year, The Times reported.

The chief executive received £2.1 million in pay and bonuses last year: a salary of £855,000, bonus of £903,000 and a pensions allowance worth £342,000.

A spokeswoman for the Swindon-based building society said: “Nationwide aims to pay its top executives, including chief executive, below the market average.

“Benefits do not give an accurate picture of total remuneration. Our executive pay is measured against tough criteria, including service, care, value and running a sustainable society.”