Attempts to finish off the stereotype of lorry drivers gobbling greasy fry-ups and Yorkie bars have taken a battering after the profession topped a poll of workers with the largest waistlines. Lorry drivers were more likely than lawyers, IT staff, doctors and plumbers to have waistlines above the national average of 38 inches.
The survey of 5,000 men, carried out on behalf of weight management supplement-maker LIPObind, also claims that 84% of men believe the profession they choose can affect their weight. A LIPObind spokesman says: "Drivers have a very sedentary job, with hours spent on the road driving past greasy cafes and service stations filled with fast food outlets."
Nutrition consultant Dr Chris Fenn adds: "Excessive fat intake not only causes people to be overweight, but also has more serious health implications such as coronary artery disease and strokes."
However, a Road Haulage Association spokeswoman defends drivers' eating habits: "It's worrying that truckers are seen in this light. Historically, this may have been the case, but I don't think so much now."