Rotherham youngsters winning fight on flab

OBESE youngsters are being urged to sign up to a weekly weight loss class as latest figures suggest that Rotherham is beginning to beat the bulge.

Statistics released from the Government's National Child Measurement Programme show a slight improvement in the levels of obesity in Rotherham.

And although Rotherham remains above the national average, the report shows that the town may be moving in the right direction to slow down the increase of ovrweight children.

As part of the town's battle against obesity, overweight eight-to-17-year-olds and their families, are being offered a place on the second round of a 12-week weight loss programme.

Joseph Newton (12), of Clifton, took part in the first phase of the Carnegie Club which aims to encourage significant lifestyle and behaviour changes in an attempt to achieve a healthy weight.

"I have lost weight and feel more confident than I did at the start," he said.

"We get to do lots of different activities and learn new ideas about food and the fruit smoothie session was really interesting.

"My favourite activity at club is dodgeball. We play in teams and it is so exciting."

NHS Rotherham has funded a three-year programme of the DC Leisure-run clubs as part of the overall weight management strategy.

Natalie Dunn, healthy living programme manager, added: "The clubs run in the evening and at weekends and offer a practical and realistic approach to weight loss, while enabling families to have fun.

"Families are encouraged to make small changes to everyday lifestyles to lose and maintain weight loss in a positive and supportive environment.

"Club members will get to take part in lots of physical activity, lifestyle sessions and social activity.

"They will make new friends, improve their self-esteem and learn more about physical activity opportunities in the area."

The next programme begins on January 4 and runs for 12 weeks until March 28.

Clubs will take place on Monday and Thursday evenings and Saturday and Sunday days at Rotherham Leisure Complex.

Youngsters can also take part at Aston Leisure Centre on Tuesday evenings and during the day on Sundays.

To register an interest or for more information contact Natalie Dunn on 01709 722555 or 07525 702784 or visit www.carnegieweightmanagement.com/rotherham.

Clubs are free to those registered with a Rotherham GP.