The Department of Health has pledged its support for the National Physical Activity Alliance (NPAA).

Speaking at the Fitness Industry Association (FIA) Summit today, public health minister Dawn Primarolo confirmed that a proposal to set up NPAA, submitted to the Department of Health earlier this year, had been successful.

The NPAA's goal will be to develop integrated, accessible and sociable activities for all levels of ability in a variety of environments in an effort to battle obesity and to get more people active, more often.

The alliance is a partnership of more than 50 representative organisations involved in physical activity and wellbeing, including the FIA.

Andrée Deane, CEO of FIA, said: “The FIA is delighted that the DH has affirmed their commitment to the promotion of physical activity.

"The announcement of support for the new physical activity alliance and funding to 49 county sport partnerships is the first step in a long journey. The Department of Health is clearly taking its responsibility seriously.”

During today's summit, Primarolo also told delegates that her department would be providing extra funding for the County Sports Partnerships.

"We plan to strengthen local funding for the 49 County Sports Partnerships from this year's budget," she said.

The CSPs are tasked with making sure funds allocated for sports locally have a focus on providing opportunities for children and young people.