When our work no longer protects us from the perils of sloth, tobacco, food high in calories, fat and salt then positive action is necessary.

Exercise has to be promoted and made easy for everyone, not the pursuit of middle class faddists.

The recommended "dose" is 30 minutes or more of moderately intense aerobic activity - brisk walking or cycling on five or more occasions a week.

Even a little is worth doing and achieving - thus a walk to the shops, a stroll in the park may be realistic for an old person who cannot jog,or play golf.

Any exercise is better than none - and dancing, is often much more enjoyable and acceptable than compulsory games on a muddy field on a cold afternoon in winter.