Children are unhealthier than ever before, experts have warned.

They are shunning fruit and vegetables in favour of chocolates, sweets and fatty foods and many rarely eat meals with their parents, according to a report from the National Office of Statistics.

But a Brighton hotel is hoping to turn the tables on the trend and nurture a new generation of bon viveurs.

The Alias Hotel Seattle at Brighton Marina is launching a unique club for food-loving children. And parents are invited too.

The hotel's restaurant, Cafe Paradiso, introduces Club Paradiso later this month.

The club will be "run" by a six-strong board of children who will taste and test head chef Steven Dray's specially-created menu and a selection of half portions from the adult menu.

The emphasis will be on healthy eating, like smoothies and cocktails packed with vitamin C.

Rather than a choice of chicken nuggets and chips with everything, there will be traditional fish cakes and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Families will be encouraged to lunch together and there will be regular entertainers and interactive cooking demonstrations.

Maxine Silsby, deputy general manager of the hotel, said: "Club Paradiso is going to be a fun and interactive experience for the whole family.

"It's not about leaving the kids in a corner of the restaurant but about sitting down together on Saturdays and all being able to enjoy good food and a great atmosphere. Kids have taste buds too and we believe they should use them."

Children will become free members of the club and design their own membership cards which will entitle them to benefits and special offers.

Children, aged six to 12, are being invited to apply for a position on the board. They should draw or write about their dream meal and say why they would love to see it on the club menu.

The six winners will take their seats on the board at the launch event on April 17. During their six-month term of office they will have a guided tour of the kitchens, attend two board meetings and have two free lunches with their families.

Entries should be sent to: Club Paradiso, Alias Hotel Seattle, Brighton Marina, BN2 5WA, by April 7.

Children eat free at the launch event which starts at 1pm. To book a table for the opening event or find out more, call the restaurant on 01273 665444.