OVERWEIGHT kids are being thrown a lifeline to help them get fit.

The Fun Fitness project, which aims to show youngsters that exercise can be fun, starts at Greenock Sports and Boglestone Community centres on Tuesday 22 and Thursday 24 October.

It is expected that up to 40 children aged between five and 14 will take part in the pioneering project.

During the eight-week course, youngsters who have opted out of exercise at school will get the chance to try out activities such as trampolining, gymnastics and basketball in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Younger children will enjoy a host of different games while teenagers will work out in the gym. They will also be able to get their fitness levels tested. When the course finishes they will get a concession pass for both sports centres.

The course is being run jointly between Inverclyde Local Health Care Co-operative and Inverclyde Leisure Trust and children can be referred by their doctor or school nurse.

Jim Lyon, health and fitness development officer, said: `We want to raise awareness about the benefits of a healthy diet and exercise. It is along-term project to promote a healthier lifestyle. We would also like to promote the importance of parental involvement.` Rona Boag, duty manager at Greenock Sports Centre, said: `Exercise is excellent for children's self esteem and well-being and the project aims to give youngsters who are overweight the confidence to exercise in a non-competitive environment.` Angelina McCann, school health sister, claims that modern lifestyles are to blame for overweight and unfit children and not necessarily eating too much.

`Kids are eating less now that they did years ago but they are playing computer games instead of going outside to play with their friends. Inactive children today will be the overweight and unfit adults of tomorrow.` Children can be referred through any healthcare professional who feels that they would benefit from a regular exercise. For more information contact Greenock Sports Centre on 715767 or Greenock Health Centre on 724477.