YOUNGSTERS at Marton Grove Primary School, Middlesbrough, have been learning about healthy eating.

Middlesbrough Council has produced a leaflet for parents on how to make packed lunches taste nutritious, varied and look appetising, and how to store them safely.

The essentials of a balanced diet for children are explained in the leaflet and it offers ideas on using different breads, fillings, chopped up fruit and vegetables, pasta and rices.

Healthy eating project officer Helen Overland said: "We are keen to encourage children to start eating healthily at an early age."

Children at the school yesterday sampled a range of food suggested for lunchboxes.