9:15am UK, Friday February 22, 2008

One in three 10-year-olds is obese while a quarter of five-year-olds are also overweight, new figures reveal.

180 fat obese child eating in front of tv

Boys are more likely to be obese

The Department of Health report showed that in both age groups boys are more likely than girls to be obese - and children in London fare worst in the country.

Nationally, over 80% of children in the relevant age groups were weighed in 2006/07 as part of a scheme to fight obesity, the department said.

A Department of Health spokesman said the Government's recently published £372m obesity strategy would help everyone lead healthier lives.

"There is a particular focus on children, with an aim to reduce the proportion of those who are overweight and obese back to 2000 levels by 2020," he said.

Public Health Minister Dawn Primarolo said: "Whilst these figures come as no surprise, it is encouraging that 80% of children in years one and six have been weighed and measured.

"We're not going to stem the tide overnight but through measures such as providing the right information and support to parents to ensure a healthy diet and regular exercise for children and increasing participation in sport and healthy eating, we hope to support families to lead healthier lives."

Kevin Brennan, Children's Minister, said the Government had already taken "considerable steps" to tackle obesity in children and young people.