Ian Rankin refused car insurance over his job

The crime writer, best known for his Inspector Rebus novels, tweeted that he “suddenly felt edgy and dangerous” after the knock back.

The revelation prompted a stream of replies from people working in similarly “dangerous” occupations.

Sean Philips wrote: “I got turned down last year. Apparently drawing is a dangerous job!”

Adrian Hunter joked: “I’m an assassin and had dreadful problems when applying for a mortgage.”

Insurance website Money Saving Expert shows that job descriptions do affect insurance premiums.

Journalists, exotic dancers, funfair employees and footballers have the worst job titles for car insurance.

However, nurses, coastguards and lolilop ladies are deemed ‘safer’ and pay less.