THE extent of the health threat facing the district's population was spotlighted at a meeting in Keighley.

Tim Howells, a senior public health officer with Bradford Council, addressed the town's Soroptimists – who were joined by members from the Skipton, Ilkley and Bingley clubs.

At the meeting, in Keighley Library, Mr Howells gave an overview of the health situation in the district and what strategies are in place to address issues.

"It was somewhat unsettling to learn that nearly a quarter of all reception children have a weight issue," said a spokesperson for Keighley Soroptimists.

"Furthermore, 63 per cent of adults are overweight or obese, and almost a third have little exercise. Also, vaccinations and aspects of sexual health testing have a lower than average uptake.

"Public health strategies aim to make Bradford a healthy place in which to live and work. There are ‘living well’ advisors and help programmes, which include support with losing weight and stopping smoking. Help is there to make changes and healthy choices. There is also a living well website – at mylivingwell.co.uk – and assistance is more broadly available to individuals and communities, schools and businesses that wish to make changes to promote health."