CHRISTMAS is set to be healthier and happier than ever for Exeter's Skilled 4 Health families — who are now experts in how to lead the best lifestyle possible.

The festive season might be upon us, but parents and children who have been following the 10-week course showed no signs of letting up as they hit the gym, sports halls and canteen.

The city is the only one in the country to get Government funding to run the project, which is aimed at transforming the health and well-being of parents and children with the help of teachers.

During the past two months, mums and dads have been learning to cook healthy meals and take part in sports.

With their children, they have joined in a host of free fun activities, including pilates and rugby training with players from Exeter Chiefs.

The £50,000 scheme has been paid for by the Government, and teachers will use school funds to pay for the next sessions which start in January.

Devastating illnesses have taken their toll on brave Gareth Lloyd, but the proud dad is determined to push himself in the St Luke's gym every week to be as healthy as possible for his family.

Gareth, 47, fought leukaemia twice and then developed meningitis because his immune system was destroyed by his treatment. The virus has resulted in the loss of both his lower legs and nose and he had to give up his lorry-driving job.

Gareth, who underwent pioneering bone marrow treatment 10 years ago, vowed to walk again within three months of the amputation and managed it after improving his fitness on an exercise bike.

But since then the machine has been relegated to a cupboard and Gareth is keen to get fit again.

Wife Lisa, 37, who is his carer, and daughter Jessica, 12, are joining him in the gym.

Lisa says she has lost weight while Gareth says he feels fitter. Jessica has been enjoying learning how to use the equipment.

"I feel stronger, especially in the upper body, so I will be back in January," said Gareth, from Whipton, Exeter.

Lisa says attending the classes has made the family change their lifestyle.

"We are trying new things and eating much more fruit and vegetables," she said.

"Jessica has more bounce and vigour, she's raring to go more than before. We still have our treats, but not as many."

Those on the health and fitness strand of the scheme have tried rugby, football, badminton and volleyball. Last week, they learned short tennis from Exeter University student Jack Harris.

Edward Mullarkey, nine, comes to Skilled 4 Health with dad Mike, 38.

The Pinhoe Church of England Primary School pupil said he was thrilled to play tennis. He said: "I've loved all of it though, it's been such fun because I love playing sport."

"I'm due to come to St Luke's in the future and doing this has made it easier because I know the school now."

Women in the pilates class were being taught how to "stabilise" their core muscles with teacher Caroline Dodd.

Families taking the cookery class made a yule log as a special Christmas treat.

And they also learned about alcohol limits and the importance of drinking moderately.