SHOCKING figures have revealed a third of children leaving Essex primary schools are classified as obese or overweight.

The research confirms there is a major problem getting children to eat healthily and lead active lifestyles.

Childhood obesity is a ticking timebomb.

Being dangerously overweight puts youngsters in the firing line of so many health risks, such as diabetes, heart disease and other illnesses in later life.

It’s up to health bosses, schools and, most of all, parents to face up to this problem.

We all need to come together to promote healthier lifestyles.

Not just for us, but for the future generations that come after us.