IT'S back to school and for hundreds of East Lancashire parents that means back to packing lunchboxes.

But keeping them tantalisingly tasty is no easy task, so here are some tips to keep them interested.

Make eating fruit fun: Most children will leave the food that takes a lot of effort to eat as they want quick refuelling to leave as much time as possible for the playground. Clementines already peeled or cut kiwi covered in plastic wrap can be eaten with a teaspoon.

Keep it exciting: Pack little surprises from time to time like stickers, a novelty pen or a joke.

Ensure salads remain fresh: It is a good idea to keep salad dressing separate so the child can pour it over themselves.

Know your child's tastes: Communicate with your child and ask them if they enjoyed their lunchbox. Look at what comes back untouched and ask without being defensive why it wasn't eaten and if there are any other foods the other children bring they would like to try.

Save time: Prepare them the night before especially pasta salads or sandwich fillings.

Chill out: A frozen drink will have defrosted by lunch but will keep the lunchbox cool all morning.

Cut down on junk: Avoid too many processed foods and if you don't want your child to eat a full bag of crisps put some in a smaller bag with a tie top.

Add a personal touch: Tuck a surprise note or send a special treat marked "share with a friend". Pack fun napkins or decorate the lunchbox, draw a face on a banana or cut sandwiches into novelty shapes using cookie cutters.

The suggestions come from Lunchboxes by Annabel Karmel published by Ebury Press.