LOCALS will have no excuse to break their "eat more healthily" resolution for this year.

A food co-operative is to be set up in areas of Radcliffe to ensure they get their five portions of fresh fruit and veg a day!

The initiative, to be up-and-running by the end of this month, is part of the Department of Health's national 5 A Day programme to encourage more people to eat more vegetables and fruit.

It follows the successful school fruit scheme, in which Bury took part, to ensure every school child aged four to six received a free piece of fruit a day.

Research has shown that eating at least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables a day can help to significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, strokes and some cancers.

Dr Rachel Reid, from the Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, said: "A needs assessment was conducted that highlighted issues around accessibility and availability of fruit and vegetables in the Radcliffe area.

"Following a proposal, money was received for Bury to set up and establish a food co-operative. It will operate on a non-profit making basis."

The scheme, will work in partnership with Bury Council for Voluntary Service, the nutrition and dietetic service at Fairfield General, local residents and community groups and retailers.

Although details of the scheme still have to be finalised, it is anticipated the food co-operative will run once or twice a week. Residents will be able to place their orders one day and collect the next, paying no more than cost price for the produce. There are also plans to start a delivery service for those who are less mobile.

Funding of £16,865 has been received from the New Opportunities Fund to operate the scheme for two years.

Details of where the food co-operative will operate will be announced in the coming weeks.