ONE in five people are obese in Bolton and 10 per cent of our children are now classed as obese. Health reporter Gayle Evans takes a look at Bolton's pioneering project to tackle the problem which is on the brink of its second year, this time targeting children AND their parents.

NEW Year resolutions to be fitter and healthier often fall by the wayside before January even ends.

But it is not just over the festive season that people in Bolton overeat and pile on the pounds.

Couch potato lifestyles mean all of us are in danger of obesity.

We eat while driving in our cars, sitting behind our desks and slumped in front of the telly.

We eat convenience foods high in e-numbers, fats, carbohydrates, salts and additives.

But the new danger is that our children are at risk with 10 per cent classed as medically obese in Bolton.

It is becoming worrying for parents to realise that their six-year-old son or daughter may stand a bigger chance of getting cancer, type-two diabetes and heart disease when they are older because of their cravings for sugary drinks, sweets and crisps in their youth.

Bolton already has one of the highest rates of heart disease and diabetes linked to obesity in the country.

New figures also show that 40 per cent of boys and 60 per cent of girls are said to get less than one hour of physical exercise every day.

These problems exist in every town in the country.

But it is only in Bolton that a pioneering project is trying to tackle the problem.

The scheme is called Dramatically Fitter and is now in its second year.

It has helped dozens of obese children come to terms with their weight, boosting confidence and self-esteem.

And now, Bolton health chiefs have decided to tackle the problem at a different level -- targeting the parents.

This year's scheme, now starting recruitment for 2003, will only take on children whose parents are also willing to go through the regime.

Public health practitioner Brenda Griffiths says: "We found that those children who stayed the course and had support from their parents were the most successful in changing their outlook.

"We now realise that children can not do this on their own.

"We want to help the parents to manage that problem. We realise that it is a family problem and should not be treated in isolation."

Parents with a child aged between 10 and 14 years who is overweight and inactive are being urged to step forward.

The 12-month scheme is run by a team from Bolton Primary Care Trust, Bolton Institute, BMBC Sports Development and Activ8 at the Octagon Theatre.

It is being financed by the National Heart Research Fund.

The project aims to help people change their lifestyles using fun as the main theme.

Mrs Griffiths says: "When the children first came to us, they were unsure of themselves and felt silly and embarrassed taking part in the activities.

"At the end they had definitely improved their attitudes and were much more motivated."

Mrs Griffiths claims her own weight problem led to her obsession in trying to help others fight the flab.

"I suppose it is because of me that Dramatically Fitter started in Bolton," she says.

"Obesity is my speciality and I'm an overweight person myself so I had an extra interest."

Towns across the country are keeping a close eye on the Dramatically Fitter project to see if it works as health chiefs attempt to find a solution to the growing army of obese people who are putting a strain on local NHS resources.

Mrs Griffiths adds: "We want to get the message across that being fit and healthy can be fun and is well within their grasp if they get the right support."

Children first have to take part in a week of activities during the February half term.

This will include a chance to work with the Activ8 team at the Octagon using drama to build self confidence and group identity.

Two days are taken up with trying and testing out new activities and foods.

Parents and children will then be offered support and encouragement to take part in a choice of low-impact activities, such as fitness, badminton, swimming and circuits.

The new recruits will also take part in sessions where they can reflect on the food choices they make and set their own targets for lifestyle change.

The project this year will be based at Bolton Institute sports centre, but those taking part will be offered encouragement to make use of their own local sports facilities.

And the course is FREE to children aged 10 to 14 years accompanied by one parent, thanks to funding by the heart charity.

Following the intense week, children and their parents are asked to attend on Saturday mornings for one year and encourage their whole family to support them at home.

Places for this course are limited so those interested should contact Brenda Griffiths on 874562 or Janet England on 360093.