I DON’T know about you but I know I am ‘slightly’ overweight. I have been told more than once that I should eat more carefully, and less. But I find it so difficult to cut back, particularly when travelling or when very busy at work.

Well, if you are like me, we are not alone. Nearly two-thirds of adults in the UK are overweight or obese. Indeed obesity has been increasing in the UK. In 1993 15 per cent of adults were considered obese. Now the figure is 27 per cent. (I would note that the definition of obese is more severe than just 'overweight')

One of the reasons for this increase is the increased consumption of those ‘tasty’ high-fat and energy-dense foods and drinks. We are also perhaps exercising less as a nation.

In South Lakeland we have a slightly less overweight percentage than the national average, perhaps due to all the hill walking we do at weekends. However just over half of the adult population is overweight, and too many children are also considered in that category.

Working with partners we want to address this. I am scheduled to meet with other council leaders on March 23 at the Cumbria Healthy Weight Summit.

We have lots of ideas. Seeking to make water refills more available as a substitute to sugary drinks, encouraging businesses to sign up for the healthy menu award, ensuring our events contain healthy food options, and continuing to sponsor and support exercise via our parks, playgrounds and trails. We also want to participate in ensuring consistent and helpful messages on healthy eating to all Cumbrian residents

I understand that all of the Cumbrian district authorities will join with Cumbria County Council in signing a declaration that commits us to do something about reducing unhealthy weight in our communities.

I am off for a hill walk. Anyone want to join me?

Giles Archibald

Leader South Lakeland District Council