YEOVIL NEWS: Greengrocer sets up fruit and veg stall at hospital

GREENGROCER Elizabeth Brettell is making it easy for patients, visitors and staff at Yeovil District Hospital to get their “five-a-day.”

The hospital is working with Elizabeth Brettell, a local trader, who is now running a fresh fruit and veg stall in the main reception foyer every Wednesday and Friday from 11.30am to 4.30pm.

The idea is part of Yeovil Hospital’s plans to help people lead healthier lifestyles, which include fitness classes, yoga, Pilates, and smoking cessation.

PHOTO - TOP: Greengrocer Elizabeth Brettell outside Yeovil District Hospital.

The hospital’s chief executive, Paul Mears, said: “Our staff are our most important asset, and they are also extremely busy. We need to do all we can to help them lead healthy lifestyles, and make healthy choices.

“The introduction of this fruit and vegetable stall means our staff, patients and visitors have easy access to fresh, local and seasonal produce, whilst also supporting local business.

“Ideas like this make Yeovil Hospital a better place to work, and a better place to receive care.”

The idea has even caught the attention of Public Health England, the national organisation responsible for the population’s health.

Dr Alison Tedstone, chief nutritionist at Public Health England, said: “The National Diet and Nutrition Survey tells us that as a population we are not eating enough fruit and vegetables. Eating at least five portions of a range of fruit and vegetables every day can help prevent heart disease and some cancers.

“Helping people to achieve their five-a-day by introducing a  fruit and vegetable stall into the workplace is a great way of supporting people to live healthier lifestyles which will benefit the employer as well.”

The fruit and veg staff can be found in the hospital’s main foyer, off Higher Kingston, and is open to the general public. The public are also welcome to use the hospital’s newly refurbished canteen, which offers new ranges of local food and drink.

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