SCHOOLCHILDREN tackled some weighty issues when they took part in a health workshop aimed at reducing obesity in teenagers.

Dietitians and school nurses spoke to pupils at Greenfield School Community and Arts College, in Newton Aycliffe, about the importance of physical activity and balanced diets to keep fit. Pupils also took part in a quiz and designed posters and slogans promoting the five-a-day fruit and vegetable message.

Staff from Sedgefield, Durham Dales and Darlington Primary Care Trusts are all taking part in the scheme and will hold similar workshops in two schools in each area.

Year nine pupils in all six schools were surveyed about the food and drink they eat and results showed high intakes of sugary drinks, low fibre and concerns about school meals.

The initiative coincides with a national campaign called Weight Wise - The Next Generation aimed at improving the health of teenagers.

Julie Blakey, community dietetic team leader, said: "With so many demands on time and energy that teenagers have with school, part-time jobs and socialising, it is our aim to show them that by moving about more and making healthier choices and smart snacking it is easy to get into healthy habits."