A NEW scheme to keep Hampshire children healthy starts this month.

The Mind, Exercise, Nutrition... Do It!, or MEND, programme for five to 13-year-olds provides ten interactive group sessions promoting healthy lifestyles.

It helps families to understand different types of food, how much you need and how to stay active.

The programme is free and was created by Hampshire County Council’s public health team with sponsorship from Sport Hampshire & Isle of Wight.

It begins in Eastleigh on January 13. Visit hants.gov. uk/hw-practitioners.htm.