A LATCHFORD gym owner believes poverty is playing a damaging role on the health of youngsters amid the current economic climate.

Dave Pritchard, owner of Hard Labour Gym, on Grange Avenue, is urging parents to do more to assist in healthier living at home but admits the financial squeeze on households makes it difficult.

After raising the importance of implementing a better foundation for children, he also admits that it is a problem which could be sustained for years to come.

"It is important to get children involved in fitness at an early age as obesity is a big thing nowadays," he said.

"I think a lot of it is down to poverty - the more poor you are, the harder it is for people to buy proper food for their children so they can lead a healthier way of life.

"With the money problems, it is easier for families to buy cheaper food."

He also feels as though the social media craze and gaming industry has a big effect on just how healthy youngsters are.

"Society today plays a big part in the matter, there is so much going on nowadays and there are so many gadgets that it makes it hard," he added.

"With everyone going on social media now and playing on their consoles, a lot of people tend to stay at home as they are happy doing everything there.

"There is just no way to get them out of the house sometimes - it is worrying."