Post-op Clinton 'awake and alert'

Clinton is said to be now taking liquids

Bill Clinton is awake, alert and talking to his family after his heart bypass operation, the former US president's office has said.

Doctors have described his recovery so far as satisfactory, and hospital sources say he is now taking liquids.

Mr Clinton is thought to need two to three months to return to full health.

Correspondents say he will now be less likely to campaign for Democrat candidate John Kerry in November's presidential elections.

On Tuesday doctors revealed that Mr Clinton, 58, had been in imminent danger of a major heart attack before the operation.

He was admitted to hospital last Friday suffering chest pains and shortness of breath and underwent surgery on Monday.

He is now said to be "resting comfortably" and is expected to remain at the hospital for a few more days.

Mr Clinton served two terms as president, during which he became known for his love of fast food and jogging.

But during his presidency, Mr Clinton showed no signs of heart problems during rigorous health examinations that were made public.