The couple - who are worth an estimated £115 million - were reportedly advised by financial experts to get rid of a third of the employees who work in their homes in England, Los Angeles, Dubai and France because they were "wasting" money.

A source close to the couple told The Sun newspaper: "This very no-nonsense accountant gave it to Victoria straight and said, `You can afford to employ all of these people. But why the hell do you??

"David and Victoria are multi-millionaires, but that doesn`t mean they have to waste money - and they were haemorrhaging it."

Among those employed by the couple - who have sons Brooklyn, 11, Romeo, seven, and four-year-old Cruz - around the world are personal assistants, chefs, cleaners, gardeners, builders, nannies, and property agents.

Those who have been cut include a cleaner at the couple`s home in Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire, East England, who had worked for the pair for eight years.

The chief gardener at the estate has been asked to also work as a driver, to save on chauffeur bills.

Six other gardeners have also been axed from the couple`s home in Bargemon, France.

The source added: "Once the accountant pointed out that level of staffing was not required Victoria pushed the button. There has been a large downsize."
sections: Celebrities