JUST when you thought it was safe... no, we're only joking. This newspaper really does give a piping hot welcome to the prospect of school kitchens coming back.

Indeed, the momentous announcement by education secretary Ruth Kelly that junk food will soon be off the menu is not before time.

Never mind those wagging fingers and accusations of Britain turning into a nanny state. We are becoming a nation of obese people with children to match.

Something must be done about it. This is why Ms Kelly has vowed to stem the flow of rubbish that daily pours down our children's throats.

For we should be under no illusions. It's a health issue now and action is needed.

We also agree with Worcester MP Mike Foster's timely reminder that county council decisions made in the 1980s have played a part in the current crisis.

This is not politicking. The point is valid given the context. Many schools converted their kitchens for other uses and this could now prove to be a headache.

But on a lighter note, let us rejoice that the fabled dinner lady may be about to return.

And please allow us to recall with affection that long-lost vision of pre-prandial loveliness, this steam-shrouded vision with arms like smoked hams and a withering stare that could disintegrate a plate of spotted dick at 40 paces.

But that was yesterday. Today, our taste buds are tickled at the prospect of a bright new culinary future for our children.