A NEW HEALTHY eating initiative is been piloted by schools in Yorkshire.

The new scheme, called `Phunky Foods', aims to change children's eating habits to more healthy alternatives.

Purely nutrition programme developer Dr Jennie Cockcroft explained: "Many children know little or nothing about the food they eat.

"Phunky Foods changes that by giving kids information about food and diet in an engaging and fun manner".

It is estimated that 50 schools will take part in the first year's pilot.

They include Fixby Junior Infant and Nursery School and Ashbrow Junior School, Sheepridge.

The programme is expected to expand across the entire Yorkshire region by 2006-7.

Dr Cockcroft said: "Children who enjoy a balanced lifestyle, incorporating healthy eating and plenty of physical activity, can benefit from enhanced school performance, increased concentration, better behaviour, increased motivation and better self- esteem."