Next time you go on a long haul journey – whether it be a flight, bus trip or car journey, consider following this important advice issued by a medical professional

When going on a long journey, you shouldn’t just think about which items to pack in your suitcase.

For the sake of your health, you should also be mindful about the outfit you’re wearing. Sitting in a confined space for hours isn’t just uncomfortable, it can be bad for your health.

In serious cases, immobility can lead to clots that restrict blood flow. This can cause life-threatening emergencies such as stroke and heart attack, so it’s crucial to mitigate risks where possible.

Providing important information on the matter, Dr José Manuel Felices posted his advice on TikTok.

The medical professional said: “Blood clots are life-threatening and increasingly common, even in young people. What you may not know is that they can be prevented.

“Blood clots form when blood flow stagnates and eventually coagulates. The legs are the key point, as the returning blood has to overcome gravity, for which the pumping action of our heart is crucial… That is why they are so common on long journeys, when we spend a lot of time sitting down.”

The expert recommends taking the following three precautions – and also had a clothing recommendation to share.

1. Walk before travelling

Physical activity like walking helps keep your blood flowing smoothly through your legs. This reduces the chance of blood pooling and clotting, which can happen when you’re inactive for long periods.

Spending at least twenty minutes walking in the hour before a flight or train departure helps activate circulation and prepare the body for the hours of inactivity that will follow.

Instead of sitting down before you board the plane, consider browsing the shops or walking around your gate instead.

2. Do exercises

Stretch your legs by walking around in the cabin when it’s safe to do so. Alternatively, do some exercises to get the blood pumping.

The doctor recommended: “Every hour, choose one of these two options: either heel raises, which you can do in your own seat, or get up and do some squats.”

3. Think about your outfit

Avoid tight clothing that can restrict blood flow in your legs. Under loose layers, you should also think about your choice of socks. Consider wearing graduated compression stockings, which help promote blood flow in your legs.

If you notice symptoms such as swelling, pain, redness, or warmth in your legs after a flight, seek medical attention promptly.

You should also consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

The lucky lady won the prize in a draw on October 2025

A lady from Cambridgeshire, who buys a lottery ticket from the same shop each week has won £120,000. The winning ticket was a Lucky Dip ticket in the Set For Life prize draw which was drawn on October 9, 2025.

The retired winner, who said the win came as “an absolute shock”, has won the equivalent of £10,000 every month for one year.

The winner said: “I couldn’t believe I’d won and still can’t believe it now – it’s been such a lovely surprise! I’m planning to treat myself to an iPad and continue with the renovations on the house.”

Andy Carter, Senior Winners’ Advisor at Allwyn, operator of The National Lottery, congratulated the winner saying, “What wonderful news for our Set For Life winner! £10,000 per month for a year is a fantastic prize, and we’re thrilled she can now enjoy her retirement even more whilst continuing her home improvements. Congratulations!”

The National Lottery has awarded players over £102 billion in prize money, creating more than 7,700 millionaires. Each week, players help generate around £32M for National Lottery-funded projects. With over £52BN raised for Good Causes since launch, this funds hundreds of projects in every postcode area across the UK.

There have certainly been glimpses of what this team could be in recent weeks.

There was a devastating first-half display against Chelsea, a spirited hour away to Paris St-Germain and a fine opening half an hour or so at Anfield.

But games are not won in snatches.

It has been a frustration of the coaching staff that they have lacked the training time during an unrelenting run of fixtures to really work on things and piece it all together like they have during previous sticky spells.

Instead the players have come to rely on meeting rooms, analysis sessions and walk-throughs.

This is the reality of life at clubs who aspire to fight on multiple fronts, of course, but competing in four competitions was an unprecedented feat for Newcastle going into February.

The relentless nature of the schedule has had a knock-on effect on the squad – Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, Tino Livramento and Fabian Schar are all currently sidelined, while Anthony Gordon hobbled off with a hamstring issue on Wednesday night.

It has also had an impact on the adaptation of Newcastle‘s summer signings who, aside from defender Malick Thiaw, are still finding their feet at the club.

Thiaw, Jacob Ramsey, Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa all joined in the final fortnight or so of a turbulent window, in which the club operated without a sporting director and missed out on a host of top targets.

Newcastle, remarkably, are still searching for a settled combination in the final third despite spending £179m on forwards.

Elanga enjoyed a lively second-half cameo at the Etihad, but Woltemade was substituted at half-time – having failed to score since December – while the rusty Wissa missed a host of good chances in both legs.

It leaves Newcastle with more questions than answers as they embark on a crunch run of fixtures.

“Where does that leave our season?” Howe asked. “We’re still fighting on several fronts.

“The games are coming thick and fast. There’s no let-up for us. We need to get back to winning ways as quickly as possible. It’s the only thing that gives you new energy.”

Mercury angles with Uranus today, meaning that plans and projects could be shaken up. Adaptability is your friend.

Gemini, Aquarius and Virgo, a little chaos never fazed you. Keep this mantra today, and find new perspectives underneath the unexpectedness of stirred plans.

Know that what is meant for you will be yours and try not to regard things too deeply today. Enjoy detours in your plans, as life is all about the journey, not just the destination.

Ahead, you’ll find all the star signs’ horoscopes for today: Thursday February 5, 2026.

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To download your free Unique Personal Horoscope based on your time, date and place of birth, visit patrickarundell.com/free-birth-chart/.

Aries

March 21 to April 20

Don’t be surprised if plans go sideways or show signs of ingenuity. A conversation could take an unexpected turn, jolting you into a new way of thinking. Tech glitches or surprising news may pop up, but so can lightbulb moments. Stay flexible, and don’t dig your heels in, as innovation thrives when you allow the unexpected. Financial surprises may require you to move fast, so be prepared and stay upbeat.

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aries

Taurus

April 21 to May 21

You like your routines, but today’s cosmic mix brings opportunities, perhaps quickly, and especially around career or public image. A fast-moving idea or conversation could challenge your usual way of doing things, but don’t dismiss it. But don’t see this as a threat. The world may zig when you want to zag, but going with the flow could open doors you didn’t know existed. Expect the unexpected and enjoy it, Taurus.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Taurus

Gemini

May 22 to June 21

Just when you think you’ve figured it all out, an insight or a tech hiccup shakes things up. Travel plans, studies or digital projects may need quick revisions. Luckily, your agile mind thrives in chaos. Stay open to strange solutions, as they might just be brilliance in disguise. Inner restlessness could point to a deeper need for freedom or inspiration. A quirky conversation may lead to a breakthrough.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Gemini

Cancer

June 22 to July 23

A relationship could take an unexpected turn, generating ideas that challenge your usual comfort zones. Friends or collaborators might surprise you with wild suggestions, but don’t dismiss them too quickly, as there’s wisdom hidden here. Financial matters or shared resources may need attention, so keep a cool head. Stay open and curious, and don’t be afraid to rethink something you thought was set in stone.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Cancer

Leo

July 24 to August 23

A conversation with a partner, colleague or creative collaborator could veer wildly off script, but don’t panic. Behind the chaos lies a fresh perspective or ingenious twist that could change everything for the better. Just don’t cling too tightly to old plans or pride, as flexibility will serve you well. Stay gracious under pressure, as sometimes a brilliant breakthrough arrives disguised as a slightly awkward moment.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Leo

Virgo

August 24 to September 23

Just when you thought you had your week neatly colour-coded and bullet-pointed, Mercury angles towards Uranus and tosses a wild idea or detour into your carefully planned schedule. Don’t fight the twist. This cosmic mishap might push you towards a more innovative way of working, thinking or even travelling. A surprising chat or insight could unlock a puzzle you’ve been pondering.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Virgo

Libra

September 24 to October 23

A flash of brilliance could disrupt your usual rhythm, but in a good way. An unexpected shift in finances or shared resources might demand a quick decision. While you’re known for weighing every side, this event asks you to trust your gut and go with the flow. Dialogue could take an eccentric turn, revealing hidden truths or unspoken feelings. Keep your cool, stay charming and be ready to improvise.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Libra

Scorpio

October 24 to November 22

Today, home truths and relationship revelations may burst forth like lightning on a clear day. Something unexpected could shake your foundations, but it’s not here to destroy, it’s here to wake you up. A family member or partner might share something, or you could find yourself saying what’s long been bottled up. Stay cool and curious, not controlling. Flexibility is your best asset now.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Scorpio

Sagittarius

November 23 to December 21

An awkward line-up could turn your day into a wild brainstorm session, ready or not. An unexpected comment, message or piece of news might shake up your routine, but it also ignites ideas that are nothing short of genius. Just don’t rush into action without a second thought. Tech hiccups or schedule blips may test your patience, but they’re just nudges to think outside the box.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Sagittarius

Capricorn

December 22 to January 20

Thinker Mercury’s angle to the edgy Uranus could shake up your best-laid plans just when you thought everything was nailed down. An unexpected idea, comment or event could jolt you into seeing things from a wildly different and refreshingly creative angle. Try not to dig your heels in, as flexibility is your secret power now. A surprise expense or tech mishap could arise, but it might lead to a smarter solution or even a long-overdue upgrade.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Capricorn

Aquarius

January 21 to February 19

Expect a lightning bolt of brilliance and maybe a little chaos too. Your mind is buzzing with possibilities, but your words might come out sideways or cause unexpected reactions, especially on the home front. Try not to bulldoze others with your big ideas, even if they are fantastic. An unexpected shift in plans may actually work best for you – especially if you’re open to an unusual workaround.

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aquarius

Pisces

February 20 to March 20

With Mercury stirring your intuitive depths and squaring off with wild-card Uranus, your thoughts may sparkle in brilliant but unpredictable ways. Flashes of insight come when you least expect them, perhaps mid-coffee or mid-dream. Conversations could veer off course or reveal surprising truths, so stay flexible. A tech glitch or schedule shake-up might frustrate you but could redirect you towards a better path.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Pisces

Your daily Metro.co.uk horoscope is here every morning, seven days a week (yes, including weekends!). To check your forecast, head to our dedicated horoscopes page.

Head here for this week’s tarot horoscope reading, and see what the cards have in store for you!

Check out the tarot horoscope reading for the month of February here.

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You have until February 25 to make sure you are prepared

The Home Office has issued travel guidance to over a million Brits ahead of a significant rule change coming in just three weeks. Latest figures reveal that approximately 1.26 million Brits currently possess dual nationality.

From February 25, 2026, dual British citizens will require a valid British passport or Certificate of Entitlement to enter the UK. The Home Office cautioned that airlines will be verifying travellers possess the correct documentation.

This follows modifications to the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which individuals will need if they don’t require a visa for brief visits of up to six months, or lack existing UK immigration status. From February 2025, eligible visitors without an ETA won’t be permitted to board their transport and cannot lawfully journey to the UK.

In an Instagram announcement, the Home Office stated: “For dual citizens coming back home to the UK. From 25 February 2026, you will need a valid British passport or Certificate of Entitlement to travel to the UK.

“Airlines will check you have permission to travel before departure. This change supports the UK’s move to digital permission to travel and strengthens border security.”

Travel guru Simon Calder branded the alterations as ‘extremely significant’. In a clip shared on the Independent’s Instagram page, he explained: “If you happen to be a dual national, which means that you’re lucky enough to be a citizen of both the UK and another country, then there is a very significant change to passport rules that’s happening on the 25th of February.

“Let me tell you what it is. At the moment, suppose you are a British citizen but you choose to live abroad. You’ve got a foreign passport. You’re perfectly entitled with that passport to come and go from the UK on short stays to see family, to be a tourist, or to go on a business trip. But from the 25th of February, that will all change.

READ MORE: Travel warning issued for anyone going to SpainREAD MORE: Simon Calder alert to anyone with dual nationality

“From that date, everybody who is not British or Irish has to have an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to come to the UK. And you might think, ‘Well, that’s alright, I’ve got a French, or an American, or an Australian passport; I’ll just get my ETA through that’. But not so fast.

“The British government says that if you have British citizenship-which might be because you were born here but you then moved abroad, or because you got it through descendancy-then you have to have one of two things in order to travel legally to the UK: Ideally, it will be a British passport. If you don’t have one of those, well, I suggest you get one quickly.

“Or, it could be a Certificate of Right of Abode in the UK. But since that is going to cost you nearly £600 and it’s going to run out whenever your foreign passport runs out, then I urge you to try to get a British passport if you’re planning to travel to the UK anytime soon.”

The right of abode that Mr Calder refers to means you’re permitted to live or work in Britain without facing any immigration restrictions. If you hold the right of abode, there’s no requirement for a visa or ETA when entering the UK.

There’s also no cap on how long you can remain in the country.

Dan Buettner has spent decades studying the diets of the world’s longest-lived people in blue zones and he shares the one food that is a cornerstone of these healthy diets

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A longevity expert has identified the superfood that is a ‘cornerstone of every blue zones diet. ‘ Dan Buettner, a National Geographic Fellow, has dedicated decades to studying ‘blue zones’, regions with the highest proportions of centenarians worldwide. He is also a New York Times bestselling author.

As part of his work, Buettner frequently responds to queries about his own diet and the lifestyle modifications he has adopted based on his research. Speaking to Meat Free Mondays, a non-profit campaign started by Paul, Mary, and Stella McCartney, the author shared why he opts for a meat-free diet.

He stated: “I’ve spent over 20 years studying the diets of the world’s longest-lived people in the blue zones. What I’ve seen consistently is that people who live the longest and healthiest lives eat mostly whole, plant-based foods with very little or no meat.”

Buettner also recommended a superfood that he consumes regularly. When asked to list the items perpetually present in his fridge, the author responded: “You’ll almost always find beans – black beans, lentils, or chickpeas – because they’re the cornerstone of every blue zones diet.”

He continued: “I keep a variety of fresh vegetables, leafy greens and herbs so I can throw together quick meals. There’s usually sourdough bread, some nuts and seeds, and a good bottle of olive oil too.”

Beans have long been a staple in the diets of those seeking a nutritious meal that keeps them satiated for longer periods. As per NHS guidance, beans are an excellent source of fibre and protein, reports the Mirror.

Packed with a variety of vitamins, nutrients, and minerals, beans can contribute to your recommended target of fruits and vegetables. If you choose green beans, such as runner beans or broad beans, which are classified as vegetables, they could count as an additional portion of your five a day.

The Cleveland Clinic, a non-profit, multi-speciality academic medical centre, even labels beans as ‘nutritional powerhouses’ and a ‘superfood’. The medical centre explains: “Eating beans can help lower cholesterol, maintain healthy blood sugar levels, fight cancer, promote digestive health and even help manage weight.”

Those who wish to increase their bean intake could do so by adding beans to salads, soups, stews, and chilis, or blending them into dips. They can also serve as a meat substitute in tacos or replace flour in baked goods. It’s advised to start with small portions and gradually increase them to minimise gas.

The NHS underscores that a healthy diet is a balanced one. It’s crucial to consume a variety of foods in the correct proportions. According to the Eatwell Guide, individuals should aim to:

Singer and founding member of 5th Dimension, LaMonte McLemore, has died at the age of 90 as his band mates pay tribute

A singer and founding member of the iconic band 5th Dimension has died at the age of 90. LaMonte McLemore died in Las Vegas with his family around him, according to his representative Jeremy Westby.

The singer died of natural causes following a stroke. He was the founding member of the vocal group whose smooth pop and soul sounds endeared them to the public.

He was in the band alongside Florence LaRue, Ron Townson and married couple Billy Davis Jr. and Marilyn McCoo. In the 1960s and ’70s, the group had a number of huge hits, including Up, Up and Away and 1969 Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In. They won six Grammy Awards during this time, including bagging the Record of the Year award twice.

As well as his music career, LaMonte was a successful sports and celebrity photographer. He saw his pictures appear in a number of magazines, including Jet, People and Harper’s Bazaar. His images captured

READ MORE: Brooklyn Beckham ‘removes’ tattoo tribute to dad David in latest dig at familyREAD MORE: Jesy Nelson reveals heartbreak as she was separated from her babies for a week

Bandmate McCoo said of the star: “Lamonte loved music and was always so generous, making his photography studio available to us in our early years before the hits started.”

LaRue said in a tribute: “Proverbs 17:22 states that ‘A joyful heart is good medicine…’ Well, Lamonte really knew my prescription. His cheerfulness and laughter often brought strength and refreshment to me in difficult times.

“We were more like brother and sister than singing partners. I didn’t realize the depth of my love for Lamonte until he was no longer here. His absence has shown me the magnitude of what he meant to me and that love will stay in my heart forever.”

Following his death, fans also shared messages of sorrow and condolence on social media. On Twitter/X, one user wrote: “R.I.P. to LaMonte McLemore. He was one of the founding members of The Fifth Dimension.

“McLemore died yesterday at the age of 90. Among the group’s hits: “Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In,” “Up, Up and Away” and “Wedding Bell Blues.”

Another wrote: “LaMonte McLemore, co-founder of The 5th Dimension and legendary photographer for Jet and Ebony, has died at 90. The “Aquarius” singer leaves behind a massive legacy in music and visual history.”

And a third said: “Sad news. LaMonte McLemore and The 5th Dimension gave us timeless hits that will never be forgotten.”

McLemore is survived by his wife of 30 years, Mieko McLemore, daughter Ciara, son Darin, sister Joan and three grandchildren.

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the situation in Iran in a wide-ranging call as the U.S. administration pushes Beijing and others to further isolate Tehran.

Trump said the two leaders also discussed a broad range of other critical issues in the U.S.-China relationship, including trade and Taiwan and his plans to visit Beijing in April.

“The relationship with China, and my personal relationship with President Xi, is an extremely good one, and we both realize how important it is to keep it that way,” Trump said in a social media posting about the call.

The Chinese government, in a readout of the call, said the two leaders discussed major summits that both nations will host in the coming year that could present opportunities for them to meet. The Chinese statement, however, made no mention of Trump’s expected April visit to Beijing.

Trump and Xi discussed Iran as tensions remain high between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s bloody crackdown on nationwide protests last month. The U.S. president says he’s weighing taking military action against the Middle Eastern country.

Trump is also pressing Iran to make concessions over its nuclear program, which his Republican administration says was already set back by the U.S. bombing of three Iranian nuclear sites during the 12-day war Israel launched against Iran in June.

White House officials on Tuesday said special envoy Steve Witkoff is slated to take part in talks with Iranian officials later this week.

Trump announced last month that the U.S. would impose a 25% tax on imports to the United States from countries that do business with Iran. China is Iran’s biggest trading partner.

Years of sanctions aimed at stopping Iran’s nuclear program have left the country isolated. But Tehran still did nearly $125 billion in international trade in 2024, including $32 billion with China, $28 billion with the United Arab Emirates and $17 billion with Turkey, the World Trade Organization says.

China also made clear that it has no intention of stepping away from its long-term plans of reunification with Taiwan, a self-governing, democratic island operating independently from mainland China, though Beijing claims it as its own territory.

The Trump administration in December announced a massive package of arms sales to Taiwan valued at more than $10 billion that includes medium-range missiles, howitzers and drones. The move continues to draw an angry response from Beijing.

“Taiwan will never be allowed to separate from China,” the Chinese government statement said. “The U.S. must handle the issue of arms sales to Taiwan with prudence.”

Neither Trump nor the Chinese government in its statement raised whether the U.S. leader’s repeated calls for a U.S. takeover of Greenland, the Arctic territory controlled by Denmark, came up during the conversation.

Trump has made his case for the U.S. taking over the strategic island as necessary to rebuff Chinese and Russian encroachment, even as experts have repeatedly rebuffed Trump’s claims of Chinese and Russian military forces lurking off Greenland’s coastline. Denmark and Greenland as well as several European government leaders have pushed back against Trump’s takeover calls.

Separately, Xi also spoke on Wednesday with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Xi’s engagement with Trump and Putin comes as the last remaining nuclear arms pact, known as the New START treaty, between Russia and the United States is set to expire Thursday, removing any caps on the two largest atomic arsenals for the first time in more than a half-century.

Trump has indicated he would like to keep limits on nuclear weapons but wants to involve China in a potential new treaty.

“I actually feel strongly that if we’re going to do it, I think China should be a member of the extension,” Trump told The New York Times last month. “China should be a part of the agreement.”

The call with Xi also coincided with a ministerial meeting that the Trump administration convened in Washington with several dozen European, Asian and African nations to discuss how to rebuild global supply chains of critical minerals without Beijing.

Critical minerals are needed for everything from jet engines to smartphones. China dominates the market for those ingredients crucial to high-tech products.

“What is before all of us is an opportunity at self-reliance that we never have to rely on anybody else except for each other, for the critical minerals necessary to sustain our industries and to sustain growth,” Vice President JD Vance said at the gathering.

Xi has recently held a series of meetings with Western leaders who have sought to boost ties with China amid growing concerns about Trump’s tariff policies and calls for the U.S. to take over Greenland, a Danish territory.

The disruption to global trade under Trump has made expanding trade and investment more imperative for many U.S. economic partners. Vietnam and the European Union upgraded ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership last month, two days after the EU and India announced a free-trade agreement. And Canada struck a deal last month to cut its 100% tariff on Chinese electric cars in return for lower tariffs on Canadian farm products.

The man’s family and friends are being supported

Detectives have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man in Peterborough. Police were called at about 10.45am on Wednesday (February 4) with reports that a man had been found unconscious at a property in Gladstone Street, Millfield, Peterborough.

A 50-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident was initially described by police as a ‘sudden death’.

Police, including specialist scenes of crimes officers, remain at the scene. Investigations are ongoing.

Detective Chief Inspector Matt Inwood, from the Major Crime Unit, said: “I understand this is likely to be concerning for residents, we are keen to hear from anyone who may have any information relevant to this investigation. Our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends at this time and specialist officers are being appointed to support them.”

A spokesperson from Cambridgeshire Constabulary shared: “Anyone with any information is urged to report it online or via 101, quoting Op Venia.”