Stars from the world of football and cricket met at the Brit Oval yesterday to promote a scheme to encourage primary school children to eat healthy and take-up sport.
Fulham defender Brede Hangeland and Surrey’s Simon King met children from four primary schools in Lambeth that have taken part in the ECHO programme.
The ECHO (Equality Coaching Healthy Options) project - which is supported by Fulham Football Club and Surrey Cricket Club - uses sport to actively engage with children and promote key healthy lifestyle messages.
Children were treated to a tour of the Brit Oval before taking part in football and cricket coaching sessions.
They were also given the opportunity to quiz the two sportsmen on their respective fields, while discussing healthy eating options.
Fulham player Brede Hangeland said: “ECHO is a great project to get young people playing sport, learning about healthy eating and taking on board essential tips on how to lead a healthier lifestyle.
"These types of projects weren’t really around when I was growing up and I am sure they make a big difference in young people’s attitudes.
"It’s great to see so many of them motivated, showing a keen interest in ECHO and benefitting from this scheme.”
Surrey spin bowler, Simon King, added: “To be able to work together with other London clubs to increase children’s participation in sports is fantastic.
"Sensible and healthy eating is a very important message and, as professional sportsmen, it is important we use our position to get across positive ideas at all times.”
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