Schools across Bromley have been praised for teaching children about healthy eating and regular exercise.

London’s deputy mayor Victoria Borwick congratulated 34 schools in the borough at a ceremony at St Philomena’s in Orpington yesterday (Oct 7).

She also commended work to support emotional health as part of Healthy Schools London (HSL), a mayor-funded scheme across the capital to tackle rising obesity.

Recent statistics for London found that between 2012 and 2013, 23 per cent of children in reception class were overweight or obese, with 37 per cent of Year 6 pupils.

St Philomena’s has been promoting healthy living through the likes of a fruit and vegetable garden, outside climbing, and a playground.

Lady Borwick said: “It’s an excellent achievement for 34 local schools to have achieved HSL awards and the pupils and teachers should all feel very proud of themselves.

“Teaching children about healthy and happy living while they are young is vital as it enables them to develop skills that will help set them up for life.”

Most of Bromley’s schools achieved bronze awards, but three - Biggin hill Primary, Highfield Infants, and St Joseph’s RC - were given silver.

The trio have all increased the uptake of school meals, introduced lunchtime activities, and set up interactive clubs.