UK minister says watch FIFA World Cup to be fit, active

London, June 7 (ANI): Britain's Public Health Minister Anne Milton has urged fans to watch this year's World Cup in South Africa to look for ways to remain fit and active.

"Many people will be glued to the TV over the next few weeks as we support England in the World Cup. Hopefully watching some of the best, and fittest, players in the world will inspire people to get active - whether that means getting their football boots on or any other form of exercise," The Telegraph quoted Milton, as saying.

"This aims to get people thinking about how simple changes in their life, like eating a better diet or joining their local Sunday league football team, could improve their health," she added.

A spokesman for The Football Association said: "Encouraging more adults to 'get into the game' and participate in football at every level is a key priority of The FA. We are working hard across England to recruit and retain 11 a side teams, coaches and referees. Football is the nation's favourite game and is unique in offering many formats and opportunities.

He added: "From small sided games to community action programmes, like the Football Fan Fitness Challenge mean everyone can get involved in a way that suits the variety and demands of their modern lives."

Peter Baker, Men's Health Forum chief executive, said: "We know that many men will watch the World Cup with a can of lager in one hand and a slice of pizza in the other. Because we'd like men to stay in good enough shape to cheer England all the way, we're suggesting they put the remote down for long enough each day to do a brisk walk and eat some healthy grub too." (ANI)