Wexford has been named Pfizer's Healthy Town 2018.
Three out of four Wexford residents believe that a healthy lifestyle is important, while 85% of locals claim to exercise regularly, according to research carried out by Behaviour and Attitudes.
72% of Wexford locals said that they are trying to reduce their alcohol consumption, while more than one-third said they could be more aware of stress in their lives.
The Healthy Town initiative aims to create and improve physical and social environments that impact health through collaboration with local businesses and civic groups.
According to Minister of State for Health Promotion, Catherine Byrne, the programme helps people "take responsibility for their personal health and well-being and make small changes."
The Healthy Town programme takes place over an eight to ten week period. It focuses on improving health and well-being of the population of a town by showing the local community how simple adjustments can make a real difference to their health.
A series of health promotion and physical activity events including free health checks, nutritional advice, cookery classes, information meetings and activities such as running clubs, organised walks and fitness sessions will take place in Wexford town throughout September and October.
Wexford hurler, Lee Chin, will act as a healthy town ambassador.
Healthy Town has made a significant impact on the towns that have hosted the project with hundreds of members of the community receiving health checks, participation in activities and attending information meetings.
The Government-led initiative is now in its 7th year. The 2017 Healthy Ireland town was Tullamore, Co. Offaly.
