Commenting on today's announcement by Advantage West Midlands that two Shropshire schools are trialing new vending machines filled with healthy, locally produced food and drink, MP Philip Dunne said: "I applaud this initiative to encourage healthy eating in our secondary schools in Shropshire. I am acutely aware of the rising incidence of health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, associated with rising obesity levels amongst young people.

I encourage students to try these healthier foods - they may find they taste good too." Lacon Childe School in Cleobury Mortimer and William Brookes School in Much Wenlock, are trialing the new vending machines, a scheme being run by the Heart of England Fine Foods (HEFF) and is funded by the newly established West Midlands Food Partnership. The pilot is running for four weeks prior to the project being launched in late spring.

Mr Dunne added: "I shall be visiting Lacon Childe School next Friday to meet with head teacher, Allan Gilhooley and the School Council, so will be interested to hear their views on this project."