Bedfordshire's leisure attractions have some of the healthiest children's food on offer, according to a national survey.

Trading Standards Officers visited ten premises around the county - including The Shuttleworth Collection in Old Warden - and took samples of one regular and one healthy children's meal on offer at each venue.

Each dish was then analysed for fat, saturated fat, sugar, salt and carbohydrate levels, and the officers were impressed to discover that in most of the attractions there was a wide variety of healthy meals to choose from - and not just the traditional salad on offer.

Tony Podmore, Marketing Co-ordinator at The Shuttleworth Collection, told The Chronicle: "Naturally we are absolutely delighted with the findings, particularly as it's an independent review carried out by the council.

"But we are a significant visitor attraction in Bedfordshire and we have a policy of promoting a healthy, balanced diet for children."

Cllr Bob King, Bedfordshire County Council Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: "Obesity levels are increasing at an alarming rate, so it is vital that young people are encouraged to eat healthily.

"With the school summer holidays just around the corner, it's reassuring to know that Bedfordshire's tourist attractions are bucking the national trend and are offering more healthy meal options to our young people. Well done!"

For the full story see the July 4 edition of The Biggleswade Chronicle.