Half of locals eating their five a day as health focus switches

CONCERN has been raised that fewer than half of Devonians are eating their recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.

- by BRADLEY GERRARD Local Democracy Reporter [e-mail]

Only roughly four in every 10 people living in the county are consuming the suggested amounts of fruit and vegetables deemed vital for a healthy diet, which in turn can help ward off preventable diseases.

Within Devon, the South Hams is the healthiest district, with 46% of people hitting the recommended intake, while Exeter is the lowest at 39%.

The county's overall figure is below the average for the whole of England, which sits at 44%.

The figures came ahead of an important meeting of Devon's health and wellbeing board, which brings together councillors and representatives from a range of public bodies, including the NHS, ambulance service and police.