Number of takeaways in Lancashire at a 10-year high
There's 93% more fast food places in Blackpool than there were eight years ago
Nutritionists in Lancashire say they're concerned a rise in the number of takeaways on the high street is contributing to an increase in the number of obese and overweight children.
Since 2010, the number of takeaways and fast food shops grew by 93% in Blackpool, while in Blackburn it more than doubled in the same amount of time.
Recent research from the British Medical Journal found that living close to a high proportion of takeaways can double someone's risk of obesity.
Nutritionists are now calling on the Government to do more to ensure takeaways make changes to the way they prepare and sell food.
Rachel Anderton is a family nutritionist for ABL Health in Bolton, she said:
'My role here is, I look after all the nutrition aspects of our curriciulum. We offer support to any children who are overweight and their families so they have access and make positive changes so they can make small changes to lead a healthy lifestyle.
'We are seeing across the board, an influx of referrals to our family weight management programme. 1 in 4 children in reception are carrying excessive weight, we're seeing that with all our referrals
"I find it quite disheartening, especially as a new parent, children should habe the best start in life but they're coming to our programmes so early on in life. But it makes me more determined to help them
'It can have a big emotional impact for them, they might be bullied in school and struggle making friendships. As they grow up, it puts them at risk of more medical conditions as they grow up. They're at risk of things like type 2 diabities but it also affects their social and emotional health. Kidfs are losing their teeth as well from eating and drinking so much fizzy pop. Education as well, they're not always where they should be when it comes to educational achievements.
'Takeways are more or less everywhere, children might be buying things on the way into school, leaving school and buying things to eat and drink on the way home from school
"Takeaways can help support by promoting and talking to children and giving them options, but also behind the scenes they should offer less salt or fat in the menu. They can make water available to buy or offer sugar free drinks varieties, and also maybe that the healthier options are slightly cheaper - a lot of people are very mindful of budget."