Once a steelmaking hub in Wales during the 1990s, Ebbw Vale is now a "fast food capital," boasting numerous burger, kebab, and pizza shops. The entire town has only one fresh produce store, primarily serving customers over 50 years old.

Changes in industry structure and high unemployment have led to a decline in residents' incomes. Ultra-processed foods have become a popular choice due to their low cost and convenience. Locals are so "addicted" to fast food that long lines of cars waiting at the McDonald’s drive-thru frequently block residential entrances. Many families consider eating fast food for three meals a day normal. Data reveals that 73% of food establishments here are takeaway shops. Even vegetarian eateries have resorted to selling cheese sandwiches and french fries to satisfy customers.

Currently, 37% of the town's population suffers from obesity, and women have the lowest average life expectancy in the country. On social media, many have dubbed Ebbw Vale "Britain's fattest town."

Sue Collyer, 62 years old, has used an electric wheelchair since breaking her leg last year due to her heavy body and difficulty moving. Photo: Adrian Sherratt/Times

This dietary habit directly impacts residents' health. Elaine, a resident weighing 108 kg, states she faces a diabetes risk. "I do not cook or go to the supermarket; I usually order delivery because I am tired after work," Elaine said.

Jodie Hughes, 37 years old, underwent gastric band surgery to lose weight after exceeding 100 kg. She believes obesity is a pressing issue due to the constant availability of addictive foods. "The economy forces people to overwork for low wages, pushing them towards cheap and unhealthy meals," Jodie explained.

Scott, 55 years old, noted that the high price of fresh and organic food is a barrier for residents, while cheap, accessible processed foods are prioritized.

Angela Carpenter, 68 years old, who once worked at a chip shop, mentioned that an 11 British pound meal provides a large quantity of food. Some customers living next to the shop still opt for delivery instead of walking to buy their food.

Residents of Ebbw Vale, Britain, face severe obesity as fast food is ubiquitous in their daily lives. Photo: The Sun

Obesity also reduces many people's mobility. Sue Collyer, 62 years old, has used an electric wheelchair since last year because her heavy body caused her to break her leg and made walking difficult. Meanwhile, Bryn Booth, 57 years old, who was 30 kg over a healthy weight, stated he had to use weight-loss injections after suffering a heart attack in 2024.

To address this situation, the Blaenau Gwent County Council has approved measures to manage obesity. Authorities propose banning advertisements for foods high in fat, salt, and sugar in public areas and ceasing to license drive-through food outlets.

Professor Tracy Daszkiewicz, Director of Public Health for Gwent, emphasized that the government needs to change the food supply system and develop a health strategy for the next 10 years to improve community well-being. Meanwhile, councilor Sonia Behr stated that changing residents' fast food habits is a process that requires significant time.

Many residents in Ebbw Vale, Britain, order fast food three times a day due to its low cost and convenience. Photo: The Sun

Damien Tarrant, 43 years old, a gardener, plans for his two children to leave the town when they grow up because he finds the "living environment too poor." He is disappointed by the lack of investment and the limited menu on the main street: "In the evening, there is nowhere to sit down for a decent meal."

Minh Phuong (According to The Sun, Times)