BLACKPOOL pupils are getting fruity as part of a national health bid.

The town's 5,203 primary school children have been asked by Blackpool Borough Council to design a poster for tomorrow's Fruity Friday (May 14), a national event organised by World Cancer Research Fund UK.

Judging takes place at the end of this month and the winning poster will be on display with other entries at Blackpool Central Library, Queen Street.

"Supporting the World Cancer Research Fund UK Fruity Friday through a competition for schools is an excellent way to help re-enforce the healthy eating message," said a Blackpool Borough Council spokesman.

"Healthy eating is one of the key areas that the government has highlighted as part of the national healthy school quality standards. Blackpool Healthy Schools aims to improve the health of pupils and help them adopt healthier lifestyles."

Fruity Friday is the highlight of World Cancer Research Fund UK's first Cancer Prevention Week, which runs until Monday (May 17).

Dr Andy Howe, the organisation's director of public health, added: "There is clear and growing evidence that eating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables helps to protect against diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

"Children's diets can be an important influence on their health now and in later life. Every child deserves a healthy start to life."