� Havering is one of the healthiest boroughs in London, according to a new report.

The study by the London Health Commisssion shows that residents living in Havering are among those in four other boroughs with the best records in the capital.

Havering Council cabinet member for individuals, Cllr Steven Kelly said: “We work hard to provide the best possible quality of life for our residents to ensure their health and wellbeing.

“This includes good education, health facilities, social care, clean and well maintained streets, as well as a varied range of culture and leisure activities, including Green Flag-winning parks and open spaces.”

Called Fair Society, Healthy Lives, the report also looks at life expectancy within Havering and shows it is 78.8 for men – just 0.2 years higher than the London average of 78.6.

Women can expect to live to 83 on average, slightly lower than the London average of 83.1.

Leader of Havering Residents’ Association Cllr Clarence Barrett argued that the report didn’t show inequalities within the borough.

He said: “We need to look behind the average figures as there is quite a variation in health within the borough.”

The report also reveals that income, education and work all affect health and lifestyle.

According to the report neighbouring borough Barking and Dagenham has the lowest rate of life expectancy and well being in London.