FRISBEES and skipping ropes will be given to children across Suffolk today in a bid to get the county fitter.Suffolk Primary Care Trust (PCT) has teamed up with 65 pharmacies for a two-week project called Getting Suffolk Fit for the Future which will give advice about food, fitness and feeling good.

FRISBEES and skipping ropes will be given to children across Suffolk today in a bid to get the county fitter.

Suffolk Primary Care Trust (PCT) has teamed up with 65 pharmacies for a two-week project called Getting Suffolk Fit for the Future which will give advice about food, fitness and feeling good.

The scheme, which was being launched today, is thought to be one of the only projects of its kind in the country.

It will see five to 17-year-olds getting weighed and measured at the pharmacies and then given a free ball, Frisbee, hula hoop or skipping rope.

Sally Hogg, head of health improvement partnerships for Suffolk PCT, said: “A third of children are overweight or obese in the country and it is clear that children are getting heavier. Suffolk is no different.

“It is more likely that overweight children will grow into overweight adults, with potential health problems.

“Instead of preparing for the worst, we want to help people change their lifestyle and that of their family because it will make a big difference to their future.

“The pharmacists who are taking part will be offering practical advice. Just one small change can make a difference to your family's health, such as walking to the shops instead of driving, or taking the stairs instead of a lift.”

For more information visit www.suffolkpct.nhs.uk.

Are you worried about your child's weight? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.