York City Knights, in partnership with Heart Research UK, are kicking off a brand new programme of activities next week aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle for children across York.

The ‘Knighted with a Healthy Heart’ project will teach children in York how to keep their hearts healthy with classroom lessons and Rugby League training sessions. The project is set to start next week, thanks to a Healthy Heart Grant of £7,000 from Yorkshire’s own national heart charity, Heart Research UK.

York City Knights player Chris Thorman and newly signed winger Dave Sutton will be attending Heworth Primary School to deliver the Rugby League based activities. They will also be joined by Hartley, Heart Research UK’s mascot.

York City Knights Community Development Officer, Jack Stearman said: “With child obesity levels rising, it’s now important that children get this heart healthy information from a young age, we’ve got to try and make exercise fun. We will be delivering this important message alongside Heart Research UK, a charity that has done so much good work in the past. I am really looking forward to it starting next week and once again working in the community.”

Barbara Harpham, National Director of Heart Research UK said: “I’m delighted that the York City Knights have received a Healthy Heart Grant and wish them all the best with their project. The programme will help children understand heart health issues, ensuring they have an awareness of the benefits of leading a healthy, active lifestyle.”

The programme will be delivered to 1500 year four pupils in the York area, with 50 schools being targeted throughout the year. Children will take part in two educational classroom sessions where they’ll learn about the heart, why it’s important to exercise and what foods are good for your heart.  Each classroom session will be followed by a practical session the week after, with the children playing Rugby League based games.