Studies have suggested that the majority of office workers want to be on their feet more often, to prevent long-term health problems.

While another recent survey found people only spent nine minutes walking each day, including to their cars.

NHS Highland now plans to encourage its staff to ditch their chairs by introducing standing desks.

The campaign, headed by occupational health physiotherapists, to get up on their feet while taking phone calls and during meetings, and breaks.

The average adult is inactive for 60 to 80 per cent of their waking day and occupational health, leading to fears they may develop type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Physiotherapist Lesley Marshall said: "Many of the employees we treat have problems which can be directly attributed to the fact that their lives are too sedentary.

"We want them to be more active, and that includes while they are at work."

Occupational therapist Kerrie Maclean who now spends most of her work hours standing, said it works. "It's not about standing all the time but about trying to be a bit more mobile," she added.