Ref.76006-230GET FIR FOR 05': CHILDREN are skipping, jumping and hopping their way to fitness with the help of Swindon Council.

Pupils at Lawn Primary School, in Brecon Close, are taking part in a special exercise programme called Active8, which aims to make exercise fun for children.

Nicole Catling, 11, said: "I love it. Skipping is my favourite activity.

"I also go swimming every week and am working on persuading my parents to join me."

Katie Mackrill, 11, was equally enthusiastic.

She said: "It's brilliant. People don't take enough exercise these days.

"I play football every day and really enjoy keeping active, so these sessions are great fun."

Lawn Primary is one of 14 schools in Swindon to sign up for the eight-week scheme, run by Swindon Council's lifestyle development team.

Break dancing, martial arts and circuit training are among the activities included in the programme.

Besides exercising pupils are also given tips on how to improve their eating habits.

Josh Witts, 10, has improved his diet since starting Active8.

He said: "I've cut down on the junk food and take more exercise. The workouts wear you out but are really cool."

George Bouverie-Brine, 11, also reckons the fitness sessions are a step in the right direction.

He said: "It's a good idea. People are getting fatter, so we all need to start taking more exercise.

"I go swimming, play football and do athletics. It's more fun than watching TV."

Laura Rothwell, 10, has become more health-conscious thanks to the project.

She said: "Before I didn't realise how much fat crisps and chocolate contain. It's gross.

"I've given up sweets and have started going running."

Her friend, Melissa Pearce, 10, has cut out chocolate.

"I miss it but know it's not good for me. Active8 has made me stop and think," she said.

Ian Baker, fitness development officer at Swindon Council, said: "The response has been fantastic. At the moment the programme runs for seven to 11-year-olds. But we want to expand it in future so secondary schools can take part."

Last month the Evening Advertiser launched Get Fit For '05 a campaign encouraging our readers to eat healthily and take more exercise.

As part of the campaign 12 volunteers vowed to transform their lifestyles over the next 12 months and we're following their progress.

So there are no excuses for not taking enough exercise, they have all been given a year's full gym membership, courtesy of the Living Well gym, at the Hilton Hotel, in West Swindon.