Change4Life corner shops due to open for business

Corner shops around the country are to be offered help by the government’s Change4Life healthy lifestyle campaign, it has been announced.

Secretary of state for health Andy Burnham announced that, following a successful pilot scheme in the north-east, businesses up and down the country will be able to work with the initiative to promote healthier eating in their communities.

The stores that elect to take part in the scheme will be given a makeover, allowing them to stock a wide range of fresh fruit and vegetables.

In addition, they will display Change4Life signs and posters, as well as appointing a member of staff to champion the benefits of fruit and vegetables to help people eat their recommended five portions per day.

Commenting, Mr Burnham, who is the MP for Leigh, said: “Change4Life corner shops have been really successful in the north-east with an average increase of 40 per cent in sales of fresh fruit and veg from the stores.”