more than a third of North Yorkshire people are risking major health problems by not exercising enough.

A study by Mori and Sheffield Hallam University found only 26 per cent of people living the county exercise for at least 30 minutes, five or more times a week.

A further 37 per cent take part in sport or active recreation four or less times a week.

The other 36 per cent are said to be inactive, exercising less than once a week.

Michelle Hanchard, Hambleton and Richmondshire Primary Care Trusts's specialist in health improvement, said people who did not exercise enough risked developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type two diabetes and cancer.

Ms Hanchard added: "Low levels of physical activity have also contributed to the dramatic increase in the levels of obesity we are observing in this country.

"Regular physical activity also reduces the risk of depression and has positive benefits for mood and self-esteem."

Hilary Conway, community leisure officer for Richmondshire District Council, said: "We are aiming to ensure that everyone is as healthy as possible and that everyone has access to a wide range of cultural leisure and sporting facilities.

"During this financial year, the council has allocated funding to two multi-use games areas which will be constructed in Middleton Tyas and Askrigg.

"The facilities will provide residents with access to an area for both organised and casual sport with reduced travel."

David Gent, regional director of Sport England Yorkshire, said: "The Yorkshire Plan for Sport aims to increase participation in sport and active recreation by four per cent by 2008.

"The new information gives us detailed knowledge of how much sport and activity people are doing, when they are doing it and what they are doing in every local authority.

"It means that money and time can be invested in sport and physical activity in the communities that need it most.2