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Expert training will now be offered to dinnerladies and school catering staff to help improve their awareness of healthy foods, and in turn tackle childhood obesity.

Around 18% of London's school children are obese, making the capital's youngsters the most over weight in England.

In response a Β£970,000 investment will be targeted towards educating staff responsible for preparing food in Schools and Colleges.

On average it's thought the average child eats only two and a half portions of fresh fruit and vegetables a day, instead of the five recommended by the Government.

Launched in Bexley

Green party London Assembly Member Jenny Jones officially launched the new program at Marlborough School in Bexley.

She said: "the effects will be far-ranging, from increased skills among our workforce, benefits to the environment and boosting the London economy by supporting London businesses."

Over a thousand public sector caterers will benefit from the 'Good Food Training for London' which runs until October 2009.

The scheme is being funded by the London Development Agency and organised by the Greenwich Co-operative Development Agency.

Healthy and nutritious foods

The training will include guidance on cleaning kitchen equipment, assistance in procurement of healthy local foods, nutrition and customer service. The courses will be rolled out across London.

Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone, backed the scheme warning that: "obesity levels are rising and many people don't have easy access to healthy and nutritious food."