Boris Johnson: Try walking to work

Londoners will be told to walk to work in a bid to get the capital's workforce fit and active.

Mayor Boris Johnson today announced he is funding more than 700 activity "champions" who will be trained in motivating unhealthy colleagues.

The £120,000 scheme will be run by the Central YMCA and is aimed at cutting sick days and reducing work-related stress.

Mr Johnson said: "I am determined that, by the time the 2012 Games are over, we are living in a happier, healthier, more active city. By providing training for these activators, I hope we can spark a workplace revolution which will see thousands of Londoners get up from their desks, get active and ultimately, get back into sport."

The Central YMCA said: "The workplace is a great place to encourage people to be more active. There's plenty of evidence that employees who are regularly active have more energy, and are less likely to take time off sick."

The TUC, National Housing Federation, the Crown Estate and Talkback Thames TV have taken part in a pilot scheme.