Childhood obesity in the West has 'reached epidemic proportions'

Public Health England in the South West is warning that childhood obesity in our region has reached epidemic proportions. According to its National Childhood Measurement Programme there are more than a thousand overweight 4 to 5 year olds in Bristol alone - the worst area in the West for that age group. This figure is the highest it's been for three years.

Justine Womack, from Public Health England in the South West has this warning:

ITV West Country has been to film with a mum who is trying to change her family's lifestyle and in turn weight.

Her daughter, Eden Hoddinott-Thaws who lives in Bristol, has a BMI of 26.1. For a child her age it should be anywhere between 14 and 17.8.

Since January she's been attending a special council-run group aimed at educating both parents and their children to make healthier choices.

For more on this exclusive story, watch ITV West Country tonight at 6pm.