MEN are getting fatter -- but they are trying to hide it by squeezing into trousers that are too tight for them.

A new survey published yesterday found that one in 10 men has the national average 36in waist -- but nearly half of them insist into cramming their spare tyres into 34in trousers.

If that reminds you of your dad, husband, boyfriend or brother, then help is at hand from Elaine Edwards of Accrington's Weight Management classes, and Jan Matthews of Blackburn Weight Watchers.

If your man's enthusiasm for sport is limited to being stuck in front of the telly watching Euro 2000 with endless cans of beer then take heart -- there is something you can do.

Elaine said: "If your man needs to lose weight then you won't get very far in persuading him to change his eating habits if you dictate that from now on it's only going to be cottage cheese and salad.

"Men who join our classes usually do really well.

"Perhaps they feel they have got something to prove to mum and the kids, or it could be that they are goal-orientated and once they are focused on a realistic target they really go for it."

Both Elaine and Jan's classes offer diets which can include curries, chillis, stir-fries, sandwiches and even booze -- perfect for the man who can't be persuaded to move away from the telly when the football is on.

Jan said: "You can enjoy a pizza in front of the match on telly if you keep it healthy.

"Try using a half-fat mozzarella cheese, finely grated, to keep the points down and a thin and crispy pizza base is better than a deep pan one. "Most people like to have a drink in front of the match.

"Stick to lager as it is a better bet than bitter, or try a white wine spritzer as a pre-match warm-up drink.

"Don't drive to the shops for your pre-match snacks -- walk instead.

"And if the wizadry of Beckham, Bergkamp, Deschamps and co really inspires you, why not have a kick- about in the garden with the kids?

If you need some "team" support to start your summer health-kick call Weight Watchers on 0345 123000 or Weight Management on 01224 256100.

Weight Management Chilli Pie

(SERVES TWO)

200g lean beef or pork mince

250g canned kidney beans

400g canned tomatoes

400g medium-large potatoes 30g grated healf-fat cheese

Onions

Peppers

Pinch of cumin

Pinch of garlic powder

1tsp chilli powder

stock cube

SLICE onions and peppers and soften in a pan sprayed with oil. Add mince and brown. Add cumin, garlic powder and chilli powder. Stir for one minute. Stir in tomatoes, kidney beans, and stock cube. Stir well and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Transfer to flameproof dish. Boil and mash potatoes. Top chilli mixture with potatoes, fork up and brown under grill. Sprinkle with grated cheese and melt under grill. Serve with salad.