Children as young as nine have become susceptible to eating disorders, it has been claimed.

Jacinta Hastings, chief executive of national support group Bodywhys, said the number of young children suffering from eating disorders is on the increase.

The organisation, which provides support for families and those suffering from illnesses such as bulimia and anorexia, has also seen an increase in the number of young boys seeking help.

"There is peer pressure to conform to achieve a certain look and what with societal pressure and the pressure of their own expectations, young people are becoming increasingly susceptible to eating disorder," Ms Hastings added.

Bodywhys last year received an average of 115 calls per month to its helpline and the charity has recommended that a national centre be established to support and treat those with disorders.

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