MORE than one million people in the UK are victims of an eating disorder, with as many as one in 20 women having eating habits which are of concern.

Now campaigners are hoping to quash those statistics by raising the awareness of the condition during Eating Disorders Awareness Week, which starts on Monday.

A Warrington mum whose teenage daughter suffered from anorexia – she does not wish to be named – warned parents and friends to look out for the following tell-tale signs common in sufferers: - Becoming withdrawn - Fussy eating - Lack of communication or saying they have already eaten - Wearing baggy clothes - Disappearing to the bathroom or for walks immediately after eating to be sick in private l Isolating themselves from their peers and lunch time.

In 2006 the Liberal Democrats reported an increase in children under the age of 10 receiving hospital treatment for such conditions.

Figures revealed there were 58 children under 10 and 35 of those were boys.

With increased coverage of size zero models, the same year saw more girls aged 18 or younger being treated in hospitals – a statistic higher than any other year from the past decade.

The national week is being supported by B-eat (Beating Eating Disorders).

The B-eat helpline for adults is 0845 634 1414 and for young people is 0845 634 7650.

Or call Leigh on 07974 796990 to find out more about The Merseyside Eating Disorder Awareness Group, which meets monthly.