KENT County Council’s former chief executive was the second-highest paid of all local authority employees in the 2010/11 financial year.

The Taxpayers’ Alliance listed Peter Gilroy just off the summit of its Town Hall Rich List, published last week.

Mr Gilroy, who left in May 2010, received £439,071 - the majority of which was a one-off payment.

KCC paid 34 staff £100,000 or more in 2010/11, fifth in the TPA’s list, although that number has been cut to 24.

Council leader Councillor Paul Carter said: "We have been belt tightening for the last eight to nine years and as a result are a very lean, tight organisation that is very much fit for purpose.

"We have done everything possible to reduce costs on the council taxpayers of Kent."

Cllr Carter said all directors’ salaries and allowances were available on KCC’s website as well as details of those earning more than £58,200.

He added: "We want to recruit and retain the best people in Kent and offer competitive salaries but are mindful this needs to be balanced with value for money."