A PILOT scheme is to be introduced into four of a North-East city's schools to encourage young people to adopt a more active lifestyle.

Students at West Denton, St John Vianney and Beech Hill primary schools and All Saints College, in Newcastle, will be given a Leisure Plus Citycard that entitles the user to discounted entry to the city council's swimming and other sports and leisure facilities.

The scheme has been introduced at a time when Newcastle has been ranked 13th in a national league table for problems with obesity. Organisers said will encourage children's parents and guardians to participate.