A VISITOR attraction is offering free passes to obese people to help them lose weight.

Officials at Thorp Perrow Arboretum, near Bedale, North Yorkshire, are writing to local doctors offering discounts and free passes to overweight and unfit people.

Owner Sir John Ropner said the attraction's five miles of wooded paths were ideal to help people lose weight.

He said: "Gentle walking for hours around the arboretum will serve as a tonic. The forest views can be motivating from dawn to dusk, and in mist, frost and snow."

Anyone who doctors say is determined to get fit will receive five free passes.

Others who are obese or have cholesterol or blood pressure problems can get in for £2 - a £3.75 discount on the normal admission.

To take advantage of the scheme, call Louise McNeill on (01677) 425323.