NOTICEABLE increases in the numbers of fighter jets on exercise in the skies over the Lake District have been attributed to better flying conditions, rather than pilots preparing for military action in the Middle East.

The RAF claimed September' s clearer flying weather with long periods of sunshine was the more likely reason, while the Ministry of Defence attributed the "increases" to the public being more aware of flying aircraft following the September 11 terror attacks last year.

Residents living in Staveley are convinced the growing frequency of Tornados through the area over the past few weeks is Britain preparing its air crews for assaults on Iraq.

Tony Parrini, RAF community relations officer, based at Penrith, said: "We are always honing up our skills for whatever might be put in front of us in the future.

"There has been no announcement.

However, at the present time, world news would tell you that maybe, just maybe, sometime in the future, the RAF might be called into action somewhere.

"Something could happen anywhere, like it did in Kosovo, and like it did in the Falklands."

He added that the weather had been fine for September and better than last year, which may make it seem as if there are more flights.

Mr Parrini said "very rarely" did aircraft dip below the 250 feet height restriction or go faster than 500mph.

Squadron leader Elaine McCloud, of the Ministry of Defence, refused to comment on a complaint which had not been resolved, but said any suggestion the RAF was preparing its crews for war was " complete rubbish and absolutely incorrect".

She added that " the majority of the UK" was more aware of aircraft since September 11 last year, and that to her knowledge she was not aware of any extra aircraft activity in the Lakes area.