YOUNGSTERS in Worcester-shire are being urged to kick-start healthy eating for the new year with a special fund-raising 'five- a-day' initiative.

St Richard's Hospice wants pupils from schools or nurseries to join in a Healthy Eating Week with the children being sponsored to eat five portions of fruit and vegetables a day for a week.

Community fund-raiser Alison Weston said: "Most adults and children over-indulge at Christmas and this Healthy Eating Week is a great way to get back on track for the new year.

"Food can also be incorporated in many different areas of the curriculum including art, geography, maths and science so youngsters can learn much more about the food they are eating.

"We are also encouraging parents to join in and perhaps lose some pounds, while gaining a few pounds for St Richard's." Participants are being encouraged to sign up for Healthy Eating Week which takes place between January 23 to the end of February. St Richard's Hospice is currently based in Rose Hill, Worcester and provides care for patients with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses and their families. Campaigners are working hard to raise the remaining funds needed to finish and equip the new 15-bed St Richard's Hospice which is currently being built in Spetchley. They also need to generate the £2.8m which will be needed annually to provide the specialist care and support for patients and families. For more information or forms please contact Alison Weston on 01905 763963 or e-mail appeals@strichards. org.uk