CHILDHOOD obesity is something that can be beaten. It must be recognised though, that it will be a long process.

It is good news that fresh "home-made" meals will be provided to all pupils in Bolton by the end of the year, due to extra cash being made to local authorities.

Healthy dishes are a sign of progress, but educating children - and just as importantly, parents - as to their benefits and converting their tastes away from chips and burgers to chicken, celery and assorted bagels and wraps will take time.

Only by persistence from us all will Bolton's children grow into healthy adults.