A council-led scheme to tackle childhood obesity has seen hundreds of Luton primary school pupils learning about healthy lifestyles.

So far 11 schools have taken part in the Chance 4 Change programme, run by Active Luton, which helps children increase their physical activity, boost their self-esteem and confidence and understand the importance of exercise and healthy eating.

Active Luton runs sport and leisure activities in Luton, and says obesity is linked to a wide variety of health problems in later life.

Ryan Cameron from Active Luton said: "We set out to increase the levels of physical activity in children from almost zero hours and working with the schools, we have been able to deliver the programme successfully. We've exceeded our target of 10 schools and are now delivering in 11 schools where over a quarter of participants are female and two-thirds are from ethnic backgrounds.

"Working with schools and local sports clubs, we have integrated at least half the children into ongoing activities and local clubs, resulting in at least three or more hours high quality physical education a week."