Some 38 youngsters from Rotherham have been selected to attend the residential camp in Leeds in a new three-year drive ordered by health chiefs in the town which will target 2,000 local children who are overweight and obese.

NHS bosses are teaming up with Carnegie Weight Management, the childhood obesity project based at Leeds Metropolitan University, which will implement a programme of weight management services for children and their families in Rotherham amid growing alarm at the increasing toll of obesity among youngsters.

Children with the greatest need will be funded to attend the camp. After completing a stint at the camp, the children and their families will be given a continued programme of support.

As well as a three month follow-up, families will be able to access Carnegie Clubs and community based programmes, which will be running throughout Rotherham. One to one advice from specialists will also be available.

Carol Weir, public health specialist at Rotherham Primary Care Trust (PCT), said the level of investment in the programme showed the "sheer strength of commitment" of health chiefs to tackle childhood obesity in the town.

"With one in three children in Rotherham overweight and obese, this is a serious issue that warrants serious investment," she said.

"The flexible and comprehensive approach will ensure that success
can be achieved on all levels. We are excited to work in partnership with Carnegie Weight Management and look forward to providing an opportunity for Rotherham children and young people to have a healthier future."

Professor Paul Gately, director of Carnegie Weight Management, said: "We are delighted to be working with Rotherham PCT and to be part of this visionary plan.

"The NHS is clearly taking great steps to invest in high-quality public health services to prevent the continued escalation of the obesity epidemic.

"We hope that other PCTs follow suit so that quality care can be available to all."