Former Hammers star Tony Gale is backing a unique
campaign called Healthy Hammers, aimed at making men in the local
community healthier.
The Healthy Hammers campaign targets men over 30, living in Newham,
in a bid to improve their lifestyles.
Tony said; "This is a really worthwhile project. As a
sportsman I know how easy it is to let yourself go and by the same
token how much difference keeping fit and healthy can make to the
way you feel and the impact it can have on your life.
"Men are notoriously worse than women at looking after
themselves, but hopefully this campaign just might see the scores
levelled for people in Newham. I'm hoping to learn a thing or
two myself."
Hammers season ticket holders Ivan De Mello, 32, John Kearney, 40,
and Mike Wilson, 47 signed up to begin their journey to a healthier
lifestyle with a weigh-in at Upton Park last week.
Ivan is an accountant, from East Ham, whose dad took him to his
first West Ham game when he was seven.
He said: "When I heard I thought it was a brilliant idea. And
certainly having the West Ham badge makes it more attractive.
"I wanted to get involved and help shape the campaign.
"My father died from a heart attack when he was 57, which is
quite young. His dietary habits were less than ideal and he
certainly didn't have any exercise.
"Men tend not to look after their health as much as women, so
if I can do something to change that, and improve my own health in
the process, that'll be a good thing."
Healthy Hammers is looking to change that by including some high
profile events during its 13-week period.
They include a five-a-side tournament, that will be hosted by Tony
Gale and entry into the annual Run For Moore, which is organised by
Bobby Moore's widow Stephanie to raise money for bowel cancer
research. The sporting legend died from the disease aged just 51.
If you are a West Ham United supporter living in the borough of
Newham and would like to get involved please contact June Smith at
the council on 020 8430 2000 or email [email protected]
Mayor of Newham Sir Robin Wales said: "Our teams will be
backing all those who take part.
"Not only will they receive individual programmes and
nutrition advice, but they will be monitored and those who achieve
the most will be rewarded at the end of the course.
"I would like to wish all those taking part good luck - they
are an inspiration."