A project to boost the health and wellbeing of people in Thetford will continue after a local organisation took over its delivery.

The Thetford Healthy Town (THT) initiative was launched in 2008 as part of a �900,000 government pilot to help increase physical activity levels and reduce levels of obesity.

The scheme, which helped more than 8,000 adults and children over a 18 month period, has run out of government funding, but will continue under the direction of Thetford-based Keystone Development Partnership.

The healthy town project was originally a partnership project funded through the Department of Health, NHS Norfolk and Waveney and Breckland Council. The programme has delivered a range of activities aimed at improving health inequalities, reduce obesity by increasing physical activity and helping people to make healthier food choices.

The healthy towns network is also being rolled out to Breckland's other market towns in Attleborough, Dereham, Watton and Swaffham by NHS Norfolk and Waveney.

Neil Stott, chief executive of the Keystone Development Trust, said the THT programme would be supported by a project board and advisory group.

'We are committed to delivering innovative solutions that tackle poverty and disadvantage. The trust has a track record of programme delivery including health projects; recently through migrant smoking cessation work, Green Ventures Bikes and the Local Food Group,' he said.

NHS Norfolk and Waveney Public Health will continue to support the programme with the active involvement from project manager Carol Doherty.

She said: 'We are delighted that Keystone will be now be leading this successful programme in the future. By working with the Thetford community, we will still be able to tackle many of the health challenges which are so important to everyone.'

If you would like more information or would like to be part of the THT advisory group, contact 07881 472201 or email carol.doherty@norfolk.gov.uk