CHILDHOOD obesity is becoming a serious problem.

Overprotective parents reluctant to let their children play outside, combined with computer games, social media and schools that find it difficult to squeeze enough sports and physical exercise into the school day, result in many children simply never getting enough exercise.

This matters. Fit, healthy children study better. Overweight children, meanwhile, could be storing up health problems for their future.

It is great, therefore, to see a York school championing sports and exercise.

Knavesmire Primary is the first York primary school to receive a Gold Award from the Youth Sport Trust.

Habits learned young stay with us. So, by giving sport and PE the prominence they deserves, Knavesmire is ensuring children are fitter and more ready to learn – and that they will grow up into healthier, happier adults.