A third of Britons are shunning health clubs because of the financial cost, a survey for World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) has found.

According to the YouGov survey, 30 per cent of people said the cost of gyms and leisure centres prevents them being more physically active.

Younger people are most likely to steer clear of gyms due to their expense, as 42 per cent of 18 to 24-year-olds mentioned financial cost as a reason for not being more physically active.

This compares to 19 per cent in the oldest age group, the over-55s.

Dr Rachel Thompson, Deputy Head of Science at WCRF, said: "It is a concern that so many people feel that financial cost is stopping them being more physically active.

"It is important for us to get the message across that being physically active does not have to mean signing up at expensive gyms or leisure centres.

"There are plenty of ways of being active that are either free or do not cost much. For example, people can take up brisk walking or running, or start playing a sport that they enjoy."

Responding to the report, David Stalker, executive director of the Fitness Industry Association, said: "Investing in health and fitness is a lifetime investment and one of the most valuable you'll ever make.

"It is essential that we, as an industry, support people to incorporate exercise into their everyday lifestyle; from taking the stairs rather than the lift to attending fitness classes, bootcamps and swimming.

"There's something for everyone when it comes to exercise, it’s all about finding the right combination."