HEALTH bosses can only go so far in getting children to live more healthy lifestyles.

As figures show county efforts to tackle childhood obesity flatlining, the NHS is renewing its efforts to tackle the issue.

Yet the main responsibility for childrens’ health must rest with their parents.

Schools have commendably improved lunches and banned unhealthy vending machines.

The bulk of the problem must therefore be tackled at home.

Amid the economic gloom, it is tough for over-worked parents to find time to cook a good meal.

But the long-term consequences – for childrens’ physical and mental health and pressure on the NHS – is too great to ignore.