A SURVEY of more than 7,000 people in the region suggests that more people are embracing a healthier lifestyle - but heavy drinking is increasing.

The survey of residents living in the Derwentside area of County Durham was carried out by NHS County Durham, Derwentside District Council, Derwentside Partnership and the Stanley Green Corridor.

It was a repeat of earlier surveys carried out in 2005 and 2006.

Results show that there has been some improvement in local diets, the number of people taking exercise ahas increased and fewer people smoke.

However, there has been no significant change in the proportion of people who are overweight or obese and heavy drinking has become more commonplace.

Louise Unsworth, public health specialist for Public Health County Durham and Darlington, said: "We would like to thank everyone who has taken part in one of the local surveys. Lifestyles have a major impact on health. Within Derwentside, 31 per cent of all early deaths are attributable to smoking and 4 per cent are attributable to drinking too much alcohol. We need to understand how local people live so that we can help to improve the chance of everyone living a long and healthy life.

"The results from this survey show that, despite some improvement in health, there is still a lot of work to be done. For example, many people who are overweight or obese underestimate their size. NHS County Durham will be undertaking more work with people who are overweight to help them understand the health implications and take action to improve their lifestyle."

Full details of the lifestyle surveys have been published in a report, which will be available in all local libraries.