A portion of chips has increased in price at Ysgol Penweddig

More than 100 held a sit-down demonstration and some boycotted the canteen at Ysgol Penweddig, Aberystwyth.

Two months ago the school council agreed a new pricing structure.

Head teacher Arwel George said he was not surprised chip-eaters complained.

The decision followed a report by the school council which found that fatty meals cost less than a bowl of pasta and a salad.

Chips at the school are now only served three days a week and a portion has gone up by 5p to 65p.

The price of salads have been kept at 50p for the last two years.

I don't want to stifle protest, we are part of a democracy Arwel George

Mr George said: "I would have been surprised if there hadn't been a protest. About 100 held a sit-down protest just outside the school building last Wednesday.

"Mealtime numbers dipped last Wednesday and Friday and I then chatted to pupils about their objections. Meal times then returned to normal."

Mr George added: "I don't want to stifle protest, we are part of a democracy and as long as pupils are sensible then there's not a problem.

"The protest was democracy in action. Prices for food such as turkey burger and chips have gone up and salads have been pegged back.

"But if you're a turkey burger and chips-eater then you're going to complain."

THE EFFECTS OF OBESITY Heart disease High blood pressure Arthritis Diabetes Some cancers (e.g. breast, prostate) Snoring

Mr George said under the new regime, fizzy drink vending machines had been replaced by fruit juice and milk.

Chocolate machines were gradually being phased out too, he added.

"There are some dishes in the canteen that have not altered in price since 2001 and 2002," added Mr George.

"I will be keeping parents up-to-date with developments and intend to send them a letter about the food on Monday.

"A week or so later I'll send them a package listing the prices of each meal and whether its increased in price or not."

Mr George said the protest was 'democracy in action'

Healthy breakfasts of cereal, cereal bars and toast are also on the new school menu at Penweddig, the only private finance initiative (PFI) school in Ceredigion.

A study by the National Audit Office has estimated that obesity costs the NHS at least �500m a year - and the wider economy more than �2bn a year in lost productivity.