A WOMAN is setting up weight loss classes to target overweight children after being spurred into action by the extent of the problem.

Nicola Haworth is offering free diet and exercise advice to help children aged 11 to 15.

She said reports in the media pushed her to set up her own group, which targets children but is also open adults.

She said worrying statistics that people die an average eight years younger in East Lancashire than the rest of the country has led to the decision.

And it comes after a Government research showed that excess weight was now the norm and most Britons will be obese by 2050 if weight gain trends continue.

Nicola, of Moor Close, Darwen, has lost a stone through Slimming World since November .Nicola, 46, said: "We have to reduce childhood obesity. There are statistics that say people in Blackburn and Darwen die eight years sooner than elsewhere in the country.

"We have to re-educate children about food, it is quite important for the future.

"Overweight children are more likely to be overweight or obese as adults. We need to get children away from junk food.

"I'm hoping the classes will be quite successful."

Nicola is hoping teaching children about eating a balanced diet with alternatives to junk and food portions will improve their health.

She added: "The children must want to do it themselves.

"It's 90 percent about food and 10 percent about exercise."

In his latest annual report Blackburn with Darwen Primary Care Trust's director of public health Mike Leaf said: "Since 1980, obesity has nearly trebled, and if trends continue it is estimated that by 2020 at least one third of adults, one fifth of boys and one third of girls will be obese.

"The consequences of being obese are serious."

Children who attend will have to be accompanied by an adult The classes take place from April 29 in East Lancashire Cricket Club, Dukes brow, from 6.30pm.