More than 60% of Dover residents are obese according to figures from Public Health England (PHE).

PHE works with local and national governments, alongside the NHS to help protect and improve the nation’s health.

This percentage contributes to an overall 60% of all Kentish residents being overweight.

The exact figure totals at 63.2% for Dover, which is lower than other districts in Kent such as Dartford, with 68.1% of their population rated obese.

Professor Kevin Fenton, Director of Health and Wellbeing at PHE said: “Local authorities are ideally placed to develop co-ordinated action across their departments, services and partner organisations to tackle overweight and obesity in the local population.

“Many local authorities are already working hard to reduce obesity levels and these new data will help all local areas monitor their progress in tackling these longstanding problems.

“People who are overweight or obese have an increased risk of developing type two diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers.

“Excess weight can also affect self-esteem and mental health.

“Overall health problems associated with being overweight or obese cost the NHS over £5 billion each year.

Mr Fenton added: “There is no silver bullet to reducing obesity - it is a complex issue that requires action at individual, family, local and national levels.

“We can all play our part in this by eating a healthy balanced diet and being more active.”