HOSPITAL staff are setting an example to improve the health of people in the area.

With obesity at an all-time high, and the North-East recently revealed as the worst area for overweight people in the country, workers at County Durham and Tees Valley Strategic Health Authority (SHA) are acting as role models.

The staff are regularly monitoring their weight to achieve their own goals, such as taking part in sport, of fitting into clothes, and a prize is awarded for every stone lost.

SHA director of public health David Walker said: "Changing behaviour is always difficult, but there are tremendous benefits in losing weight. You will feel healthier and reduce the risk of strokes, heart attacks and diabetes.

"SHA staff should be proud that they are supporting each other in attempting to improve their fitness and health.

"Local primary care trusts are all working towards reducing obesity by encouraging physical activity throughout their communities such as sport, cycling, walking and the use of green spaces, play projects and school PE."

Obesity is rapidly increasing in County Durham and Tees Valley with more than half the adult population overweight.