Healthier attitude

In October 2008, the Gazette reported that River ward was the unhealthiest place to live in the south-east.

Another report last October highlighted research showing that people living in River ward die 12 years younger than those in Crawley, only 35 miles away.

The reasons have been given as unhealthy lifestyles, lack of exercise, obesity, heart conditions, respiratory conditions. There are obviously other underlying issues, including smoking, drinking and eating the wrong foods.

However, as a councillor for River ward, it is very frustrating that I cannot do enough to change this because of bureaucratic red tape, funding criteria and now even more cutbacks.

But to have something for nothing, supposedly, as in the opening of the Promenade for cycling, has to be a positive step forward to improve people’s lifestyles and exercise habits.

If opening the Promenade to cycling encourages individuals or families to participate in exercising together and it starts to reduce health issues in young and old alike, it has to be a positive step forward.

And surely the Promenade is big enough for everyone to share?

Ian Buckland

Liberal Democrat town and Arun councillor for River ward

Lizard Head

Littlehampton