HEALTH bosses have urged parents to give their children fruit instead of chocolate this Easter.

Officials at NHS Yorkshire and the Humber say people should mix healthy alternatives with their Easter eggs this weekend.

They have also appealed for people to use the break to get out and about in the sunshine to get some fresh air and exercise.

Director for public health at NHS North of England, Paul Johnstone, said: “Eating Easter eggs is a great tradition and eating chocolate in moderation is fine.

“However, why not experiment with healthy alternatives, for instance, send a fruit basket or give healthy Easter cakes or biscuits as gifts to your family and friends.

“Using the school holidays to get some exercise is also a good way to stay healthy and offset the effects of eating chocolate. You could use the time off work or school to go for a swim, go cycling or walking”.