A SIX-a-side football programme that has already helped over 15,000 men across the UK tackle obesity is underway in Poole.

The six-a-side football club, organised by MAN v FAT Football, meets on Monday evenings at The Cornerstone Academy, Blandford Close.

The football clubs are specifically aimed at overweight and obese men with a BMI of higher than 27.5.

According to Public Health Dorset figures, 26% of adults in Poole are physically inactive, which is significantly worse than the overall rate for England.

Some 60% of adults are classified as overweight or obese or potentially as many as 47,400 men in the town.

Before matches, players are weighed, which is followed by a 30-minute game of six-a-side, with extra goal bonuses awarded to teams based on the amount of weight players have lost.

Weight loss and match scores then contribute to teams’ league positions within a club.

Players receive additional support including healthy meal recipe ideas and tips on general fitness.

­Richard Crick, Head of MAN v FAT Football­, said: “We are delighted to be expanding our programme to Poole following many successful years of helping men lose weight and improve their lifestyle elsewhere in the country. We can’t wait to get started.

“MAN v FAT isn’t just about losing weight, it’s about enjoying sport in a friendly environment, learning about healthy lifestyle and diet – while making new friends.”

Players can join up at www.manvfat.com/football and they can get more information by calling 0345 163 1042 or emailing football@manvfat.com