AIR travellers worried about developing blood clots on long-haul flights can take advantage of a series of tips compiled by a Bury health club.

Staff at LA Fitness in Chapel Street, have come up with a leaflet packed with helpful advice and exercises, in response to recent concerns about "economy class syndrome".

The club's manager, Louise Brookes, said: "We have been getting a lot of enquiries at the club about what people should do to minimise the risks of blood clots developing if they are sitting on the plane for long periods.

"The airlines are taking a responsible attitude by providing information about what specific exercises they should do while flying, and what they should do before and after a long-haul flight." The British Travel Health Association estimates there are about 2,600 reported cases of flying-related pulmonary embolisms each year.

Louise added: "Obviously that's not a huge percentage in terms of the number of people flying every year, but there is a risk and that risk can be dramatically reduced by following some simple advice and doing exercises."

Regular strolls up and down the aisle along with leg muscle stretches are recommended, as are regular drinks of water.

The following exercises can be practised on board aeroplanes, while passengers are sat in their seat:

Simulated Walking: legs are lifted alternately, at least four inches off the chair. When practised for a few minutes, this can greatly improve circulation.

Tip toes: keeping toes on the floor. heels are fully extended upwards.

Shrugs: shoulders are lifted towards the ears, until a mild tension is felt in the shoulders and neck. Shoulders are held in position for five seconds and are then relaxed.

Shoulder blade squeeze: fingers are interlaced behind head and elbows stretched away from the body. Elbows pulled back to squeeze shoulder blades. Position held for ten seconds.

Head Rolls: head tilted to either side with the chin stretched round in a semi circle to face left, and held for ten to 20 seconds, this is then repeated facing right.

The leaflet is available from the club, or by calling 0800 358 9469.