Top pop stars finances hit by economic downturn

The finances of Britain's top music stars, including Elton John, Paul McCartney and Robbie Williams, have been badly hit by the recession, figures from the Sunday Times Rich List showed Friday.

Singer Elton John's personal fortune fell 26 percent in the last year, from 238 million pounds to 175 million (250 million dollars, 200 million euros) in 2009, according to a preview of the list of Britain's 1,000 wealthiest people.

Former Beatle Paul McCartney has also seen his fortune fall by 60 million pounds in the past 12 months thanks to falling property and share values.

Pop star Robbie Williams lost 25 million and now has 80 million pounds, Welsh crooner Tom Jones's wealth dropped 24 percent to 130 million pounds, and Cliff Richard's fell by a fifth to 40 million pounds.

Meanwhile, footballer David Beckham and his wife, former Spice Girl Victoria, have seen their fortune remain steady at 125 million pounds, according to the list, the full version of which will be published on Sunday.