Proposals have been put forward to tax fast food outlets in a bid to reduce obesity problems throughout the UK.

The cash generated through the scheme would then be used to fund healthy eating schemes, as well as litter picking initiatives all over the country.

Dubbed the fat tax, it is first being trialled in Oldham, Manchester, with a view to rolling it out in other areas if it proves successful.

The local council said that the £1,000 levy would be imposed on any business intending on selling takeaway food, although some healthier outlets may be exempt.

David Herne, of the Greater Manchester Directors of Public Health group, commented: "We support action that seeks to address the challenge of childhood obesity."

It was recently said by Donna McDaid, national secretary for the National Society of Allotment and Leisure Gardeners, that growing produce is a great way of getting people interested in healthy eating.