YOUNGSTERS have been given advice on how to look after their hearts thanks to a team effort from Colchester United, Heart Research UK and sandwich store Subway.

Dozens of children signed up to the programme called Cardio-Active which encouraged them to move a mile per day and involve their family members in activities at least once a week.

The project culminated in a celebration at the Weston Homes Community stadium last month where fans were given free health checks.

The U's community development officer Tom Tayler said: "“Our Cardio-Active project here at Colchester United has been an overwhelming success throughout the schools which we delivered it in.

"Over the six weeks of our programme, all of our participants took huge strides in understanding the way their heart works and also how to keep it healthy.”

The programme was funded by Subway and Heart Research UK and the charity director Barbara Hapham said: "We’re pleased that the children engaged so well with this project and enjoyed learning about and exercising their hearts – a lesson that will last them a lifetime.

"We hope that everyone involved in this project goes on to live healthier, happier, longer lives.”

Subway regional marketing director Manaaz Akhtar said: " We are delighted to be able to fund this worthwhile initiative which has helped people in North Essex lead healthier lifestyles."