CHILDREN are being encouraged keep fit in a new scheme launched by Burnley Council which starts next week.

The council's healthy lifestyle team has started a 12-week programme for children that aims to make staying healthy fun.

As well as encouraging them to take up physical activity they will also be given advice on healthy eating and lifestyle changes for young people, aged between seven and 16.

Laura Leverentz, the council's healthy lifestyle officer for young people, said: "Feedback from parents and young people on the scheme has been extremely positive and encouraging.

"It gives young people a greater awareness of the need to be active and of ways in which activity can be included in their daily routine.

"We're not saying don't watch TV or use the computer, just be aware of the benefits of some sort of activity every day, if you can."

Councillor Barry Guttridge, the council's executive member with responsibility for leisure, added: "This is an excellent initiative, particularly for those young people who do not consider themselves sporty and who take very little exercise."

The next 12-week programme starts on Thursday at Vanguard Community Centre, in Bevington Close, Burnley. Each weekly sessions costs £1.