A PLAN to improve the health of the people of Stockton by changing their diet is to be introduced by the local authority.

The council's health select committee is likely to approve a draft food plan for Stockton at a meeting next week.

The aim is to encourage good nutrition throughout the community in a bid to improve health and cut heart disease and cancer. The plan will bring together a variety of groups already working to improve the area's eating habits.

Among the aims is the provision of nutritional school meals, ensuring food is clearly labelled and making healthy food easily available to more people.

The draft plan pledges to support Stockton's fresh food markets, introduce food studies to schools' curriculum and support businesses which want to start selling healthy food.

A council spokesman said: "Stockton on Tees Borough Council, in partnership with local businesses, community groups, educational establishments, health authorities and trusts, local health promotion services and other interested groups and individuals will work to improve the provision of food within the borough."

If the plan is approved a project officer will be appointed by the council.

The draft plan is to go before a council meeting on Monday.