Demand to ban Coca-Cola Christmas truck because it 'encourages obesity'

A politician wants to ban the Coca-Cola Christmas truck from Liverpool as the city is "in the grip of an obesity epidemic."

The famous bright red truck, adorned with Christmas lights, sometimes visits the city for festive promotional events, however the city's Liberal Democrat party now wants to have it banned.

Liverpool's Liberal Democrat leader Richard Kemp said he was "appalled" that the "grossly unhealthy" product could arrive there.

According to the Liverpool Echo, the truck's visit to the Liverpool One shopping centre was branded a "cynical event" by Mr Kemp.

"You are probably aware that Liverpool is in the grip of an obesity epidemic for children and adults. 30% of our 11-year-olds are obese," he wrote.

"The biggest single cause of this is the consumption of fizzy drinks.

"That is why I am appalled that there is a rumour going round that you will welcome the Coca-Cola van to Liverpool. This cynical event has taken place for the past five years and is not designed to welcome Christmas but to increase the consumption of a product that is grossly unhealthy."

A Coca-Cola spokesman said: "The Coca-Cola Christmas truck tour provides a moment of fun for everyone in the build-up to Christmas and we’ve had a positive response from many people in Liverpool when we visit each year."

Liverpool One has declined to comment.