Darlington council’s public health department has recruited college students to help reduce obesity levels in the borough.

Over 40 Darlington College learners on fine art, graphic design, photography and art and design courses have been commissioned to design posters to promote a healthier lifestyle to the area’s residents.

Ten of the designs have now been chosen to feature in a new campaign, with one of the winning designs by 18-year-old student James Peacock, featuring Star Wars characters as fruits.

“Stars Wars is current but stretches back several generations and is therefore something the community as a whole can relate to,” he explained. “I do make sure I watch what I eat and exercise. I’m delighted to be chosen in the top 10.”

“The students really understood the need for healthy living and their work can’t fail to reach the wide and diverse audience that exits in Darlington,” added Rachel Osbaldeston, public health portfolio lead at Darlington Council.