Today sees the launch of a new Cornwall-wide ’Physical Activity Strategy’, which has set a target of increasing the number of people being physically active by 50,000.

Being inactive increases the risks of developing high blood pressure, heart disease and osteoporosis and costs Cornwall’s NHS an estimated £100 million per year, say the campaign’s organisers.

Dr Caroline Court, acting director of public health for Cornwall and Isles of Scilly said: ’Small changes can make big differences. The benefits of simply moving more include improving mental health by boosting your mood, reducing blood pressure and preventing diabetes.’

Mike Thomas from Cornwall Sports Partnership added: ’We cannot afford to be complacent and the situation could get worse, as opportunities to be active in every-day life are engineered out.

’Never has the need to reduce inactivity levels in Cornwall been more urgent.

’We are intent on building a group of strong local partners working together to increase participation and contribute to improved health for people in Cornwall.’