A STARTLING 218,603 people aged between 20 and 64 in the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire health authority are obese.

And only 0.76 per cent of these are being treated for obesity by their GP using therapy available on the NHS.

But a move by South Cambs District Council to expand their Fitness 4 Health scheme into Gamlingay could benefit residents in Bedfordshire as well as those in South Cambs.

The aim is to help people into regular exercise in a controlled environment and at a subsidised rate. There is a £6.50 charge for a fitness assessment and a £2.50 charge per class.

To be able take part on the scheme you must be referred to it by a health care professional, but you do not necessarily have to live in South Cambs.

Moves are also being made in Bedfordshire to stem the causes of obesity, by educating and empowering youngsters with the knowledge to be able to make the right choices.

The Luton and Bedfordshire Healthy Schools Scheme currently work with half the schools in the Biggleswade and Sandy area, and aims to promote healthy eating and exercise to the children.

The scheme is open to all schools in the area and they can find out more by calling 01525 636926 or on www.healthy-schools.co.uk