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Stevenage Leisure gives local kids Food 4 Fitness
Leisure manager Stevenage Leisure (SLL) has launched a new initiative with four of the town’s schools to reward children who make healthy eating choices.
In a joint venture with Hertfordshire Catering, the Food 4 Fitness scheme will see children at Barclays, Marriotts, Heathcote and Thomas Alleyne schools earning points when they make healthy food choices.
The points, credited to their smartcards, can be exchanged for vouchers supplied by Stevenage Leisure for free sports sessions.
SLL’s business manager, Geoff Caine, said: “This is a groundbreaking initiative, there have been many examples of simple free swimming, but we believe this is the first time in the UK where leisure has a direct link with healthy eating.”
Marketing director, Lisa Seccombe added that if the scheme was successful it could be rolled out around the district.
“We think it’s a brilliant idea to encourage young people to adopt healthy lifestyles by combining food and fitness,” she said. “There’s everything from swimming and squash to gym and aerobics available: they can even save up points for a class football or pool party.
“A lot of students are interested and if this pilot scheme is successful we’d like to expand it.”
Executive councillor for community and culture at Stevenage Borough Council Sue Myson said: "I'm delighted that Stevenage students will be the first in the country to benefit from this initiative. It's an innovative way to help young people to live longer, healthier lifestyles."
The initiative is being introduced at the four schools this week, with the official launch taking place this Friday (1 October) at Stevenage Swimming Centre. Details: email [email protected]