Michael Vaughan is keen his daughter sees the benefit of outdoor life

Ashes winner Michael Vaughan has urged parents to take a more proactive role in their children's sporting development.

Official government statistics published earlier this year have shown that one in four children in England are obese.

And health experts have warned a lack of outdoor exercise in childhood will further increase the chances of heart problems and diabetes in later life.

But England captain Vaughan is hoping parents can persuade their children to spend less time inside playing computer games or watching television.

"It's about parents encouraging their kids to have fun and learn new skills," the 31-year-old father of two told the BBC.

"But it's not all about playing sport. My little girl (Tallulah Grace) is only two and she's certainly not involved in sport, but getting her on a slide or a swing is good enough.

My parents gave me a really good path in life Michael Vaughan

"Hopefully, all parents will follow my lead - fresh air is certainly a lot better than watching DVDs."

A knee injury has forced Vaughan out of England's eagerly anticipated Ashes series in Australia this winter.

But he said he was indebted to his parents for helping him reach the very top of international cricket.

"I believe you should guide your kids in the right direction to give them as many opportunities as possible," said Vaughan at the launch of Persil's Be My Coach campaign.

"I was fortunate as my parents did exactly that. They introduced me to many different sports and ball games.

"I'm going to do that with my two kids. It's not all about playing sport - it's about getting outside."