A CHARITY on a mission to make children happier and healthier through running is heading to a Wiltshire village.

Kids Run Free is targeting schools in Lyneham with the aim of tackling child obesity in the area. It hopes to encourage youngsters to sign up to free sessions and inspire a passion for keeping fit.

Its Park Kids initiative, run by volunteers, seeks to get families active, while Marathon Kids is geared towards getting children to complete 30 minutes of physical activity during the school day.

The founder of the Warwickshire-based organisation, Martine Verweij, said: “We know how important exercise is for children, but we’re also aware of how Park Kids can benefit families as a whole. It provides quality time together and helps get everyone active.

“Despite the best intentions of some teachers and parents lots of children aren’t getting the recommended amount of daily activity.

"The childhood obesity crisis which we are in the middle of is leaving children with physical and mental issues which can continue into adulthood.”

Operations manager Sarah Hargreaves said: “Exercise for children has wide-ranging benefits, furthering confidence and social skills as well as helping children to feel happier through being active.”

The charity is looking for more volunteers to get onboard.

To volunteer or find out how to take part visit www.kidsrunfree.co.uk