Nine UK regions will get new funding to develop healthy living schemes

The UK government has given nine areas the go-ahead to become 鈥渉ealthy towns鈥 in a bid to combat obesity.

Some 拢30m of funding for the scheme will be split between Dudley, Halifax, Sheffield, Tower Hamlets in London, Thetford in Norfolk, Middlesbrough, Manchester, Tewkesbury and Portsmouth.

Each area must match the funding from the government to develop schemes relating to cycling, walking, healthy eating and green spaces.

Every town given 鈥渉ealthy town鈥 status must promote healthy living.

Thetford is planning a 鈥渃ycle recycle鈥 project that supports people to buy and maintain bikes. Manchester will offer free activities and food to people who exercise, while Sheffield is intending to make its city 鈥渂reast-feeding friendly鈥.