RESIDENTS in a North-East town with unhealthy diets are being given a stark warning - for their own good.

The consumer advice centre in Corporation Road, Middlesbrough is running a window display with everyday products such as crisps and chocolate - alongside test tubes showing the true amount of fat they contain.

"It is a sad fact that the mortality rate in Middlesbrough attributable to coronary heart disease is 25 per cent above the national average," said Middlesbrough Councillor Ron Lowes, explaining the need for the hard-hitting exhibition.

The display is all about fat in the diet and aims to better inform people about fat labelling - and the importance of reading the food label.

There are comparisons between ready-made lasagnes, tikka masala and burgers, and their healthy alternatives.

A healthy level of fat consumption is 95 grammes per day for adult men and 75 grammes per day for adult women. But the type of fat consumed is also important.

"Obesity and the health problems associated with too much fat in the diet are now a public health issue," said Coun Lowes.

"Many people are surprised by the amount of fat in what we eat, especially everyday convenience food.

"Most people will know that reducing the amount of saturated fat you eat can lower your chances of developing coronary heart disease. We want to inform people and encourage them to take a closer look at what they and their families are eating."