Greenwich Council is trying to convince football clubs to not sell sugary foods on match days.

One in three children are above a healthy weight by the time they leave primary school, according to the council, and football clubs are in a prime position to combat that.

As well as selling healthier foods during matches, the council is also encouraging clubs and leagues to not renew sponsorship deals with junk food brands.

The open letter was co-signed by 60 people, including Greenwich Council, in an attempt to highlight unhealthy brands associating themselves with healthy and active lifestyles such as sports teams.

Steve Whiteman, director of public health at Greenwich Council, said: “By continuing to sign sponsorship deals from junk food brands, football associations, leagues and clubs are doing impressionable young fans a disservice.

“The Council has pledged to remove sugary drinks from vending machines and review sponsorship from companies which promote unhealthy food and drink and there’s no reason why clubs can’t follow in our footsteps.

“By making it more convenient to choose food and drink which is low in sugar, fat and salt, together we can help drive down obesity.”

Charlton Athletic are already worked with the council to promote eating healthier foods in January last year.

Deb Browne, from Charlton Athletic Community Trust, said: “We have made it easier for Charlton fans of all ages to make healthy choices and hope other football clubs will follow suit.

“CACT, Delaware North and Charlton Athletic FC introduced a levy on sugary drinks in July last year, more than eight months before the Government’s levy came into place, and we have used the revenue gained to fund holiday hunger programmes.

“All drinks at CACT events are sugar-free and we also run healthy eating workshops in youth clubs and sell fruit in our tuck shops.”