'I think fast food is the problem' - Walsall residents weigh in on 'shocking' stats showing town is among the most obese

The figures placed Walsall among 44 local authorities in England where at least 33.3 per cent of adults were likely to be obese in 2023/24, with the region ranking the highest among the Black Country boroughs. 

Residents have now said that councils should do more to combat obesity in the Black Country, with many asking for more efforts to entice people to visit gyms or visit nature. 

Glenys and David Yates, from Walsall, said: "The people in Walsall are all very nice. But there are some that could be slimmer and take care of their health more.

"I think access to fast food has something to do with that. On the high street, you have McDonald's, Greggs, it's so easily accessible now."

Fast food was a point of concerns among many residents, with some saying that they never saw a fast food restaurant in their youth.

Jean Dearlove and Carol Briggs, from Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield, said: "When we were young, we never saw a McDonald's or a Greggs. 

"We had Wimpy, but they were far and few in between. We think the councils should do more to encourage people to get healthier."

Michael Richards, of Walsall, said: "I like to buy fresh produce from the market stalls. Avocado, mango, fruit and vegetables, it's healthier.

"I think the council should encourage people to eat healthier."

Walsall was listed as the Black Country area most affected by obesity, with 36.2 per cent of residents likely to have obesity in 2023/24, with the next region being Sandwell with 31.9 per cent.

Walsall Council has been approached for comment.