Top swimmer makes a splash in fight against child obesity

An Olympic athlete is helping children in one of London's most deprived boroughs beat obesity.

Adam Whitehead will become a mentor to children as young as two advising them on healthy eating and exercise. The Commonwealth gold swimmer aims to motivate youngsters up to the age of 11 to make gradual changes to their diet and give them tips on keeping fit.

Over a quarter of 10 and 11-year-olds living in Tower Hamlets are overweight or obese. Thirteen per cent of children starting school in Tower Hamlets are obese.

The 10-week programme is being run by Mend, a government-backed weight-loss programme that has helped thousands of obese children. Whitehead, 31, said: "Athletes can play a crucial role in inspiring kids to make healthy lifestyle changes."