HEALTH chiefs are urging people to take more responsibility for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Greenwich Primary Care Trust (PCT) has issued its plea after the publication of its annual public health report, called Improving the Health of the Citizens of Greenwich.

The report estimates more than four in 10 men and three in 10 women in the borough are regular smokers.

It also claims the number of overweight or obese people in the area is increasing.

Greenwich PCT public health consultant Tim Dyke says it is up to individuals to help themselves by eating more healthily and drinking more moderately.

He added: "There is so much people can do to look after their own health.

"People should not be locked into the mentality they cannot improve their health. There are steps they can take."