THERE has been no escape from the flu bug for Tracey Polak, the assistant director of public health, who is leading the swine flu campaign for the Devon Primary Care Trust.

Despite having her hands full at work Tracey has been able to find some time to carry out home improvement — including knocking down a wall at her home.

Among the old pieces of pottery and glass uncovered was a copy of the Echo from Monday, October 12, 1959.

Intrigued, she scanned what was making the news 50 years ago — and found it was flu. There on page 6 was a story headlined: Flu Didn't Stop RSM Greenslade.

It told the tale of Regimental Sergeant Major Greenslade, 89, who defied the flu bug to attend the 4th Devon's old comrades' association annual supper, held at the then TA Centre in Barrack Road, Heavitree.

However, Tracey was struck by something else — that RSM Greenslade had not followed current swine flu advice and avoided the supper.

A trust spokeswoman said: "We would like to reiterate the important swine flu advice to stay at home and call the National Pandemic helpline on 0800 1513100 if you have any of the symptoms of swine flu."