Shops sell size 18 school uniforms as child obesity soars

The high street chain Bhs has extended its 'generous fit' range because many pupils can no longer squeeze into traditional-sized clothes.

Dresses will now go up to size 18, larger than the average among grown-up Britons.

Bhs sells items of school uniform on its website for larger youngsters, advertised as 'generous size' outfits

A size 18 woman typically has a 42in bust, a 34in waist and a 44in hip.

Bhs started its generous fit range three years ago, to provide 'a fuller cut around the chest, waist, hip and thighs'.

Expanding waists: Obese children are at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes

Rachele Hayman, buying director of childrenswear, said: 'We are visiting schools all the time and we are always coming across boys and girls at sizes that are basically obese.'

Bhs is one of a number of major retailers to increase the size of children's clothes, with one in four 11 to 15-year-olds now classified as overweight or obese.

John Lewis sells blazers up to a 48in chest and trousers up to a 40in waist.

M&S also expanded its sizes last year and Gap has brought in 'plus' sizes for casual clothes.

Dr Colin Waine, chairman of the National Obesity Forum, said: 'It is sad that things have been allowed to get to this state.

Children at this sort of size are at serious risk of developing Type 2 diabetes as well as cardiovascular disease.'