CUBS and Beavers were given a prescription for healthy living from a hospital consultant who specialises in children's illnesses.
Paediatrician Dr Heather Smith passed on lessons on diet and exercise to the youngest members of the 2nd Bishop Auckland Scout group.
The Advertiser and its sister paper The Northern Echo has teamed up with the Durham Dales Primary Care Trust, Wear Valley Council and Northumbrian Water to spread the message to people of all ages through a campaign called A Chance to Live.
Dr Smith said: "Sadly we are seeing overweight children and teenagers with diseases like diabetes, heart disease and arthritis which at one time usually came to people in middle age.
"We need to get the healthy eating message across to youngsters of this age so it will stand them in good stead for the rest of their lives.
"I was impressed with the group's knowledge and I am pleased that they have got the message."
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