Almost 7,000 British Airways staff have volunteered to take unpaid leave, part time working or voluntary pay cuts as part of the company's plans to cut costs.

Of the 40,000-strong workforce, 6,940 employees have answered the employers call to save money and are expected to save the airline £10 million.

British Airways' chief executive Willie Walsh, said: "This is a fantastic first response. I want to thank everyone who has volunteered to help us pull through this difficult period.

"This response clearly shows the significant difference individuals can make."

Walsh himself has agreed not to take a salary during the month of July.

Options were made available for staff to volunteer for between one and four weeks unpaid leave or unpaid work, with the pay deduction spread over three or six months. The firm hopes more staff will take the option to take further pay cuts later in the year.