Occupational therapist Christine Allison from Linton is certainly hoping many Wetherby News readers do as she prepares to embark on a study that will assess whether a switch to cacao-rich dark chocolate from high sugar brands can actually help people to lose weight.

The 47-year-old is currently studying for a masters in weight management through the University of Chester and she is on the search for 30 local volunteers - both men and women - to take part in the six-week research project.

Chocoholic volunteers should be healthy, aged between 18 and 65 and they will be asked to substitute their normal chocolate brand for dark chocolate provided by Christine free-of-charge.

Volunteers' should currently eat around 500g of chocolate a week and be prepared to have their weight regularly checked to assess the impact of the switch to dark chocolate.

Christine, who works at Harrogate Hospital, said: "In my job as an occupational therapist I see more and more people who are obese and overweight.

"So as part of my masters, I was looking for a ways in which I can help people lose weight and the study that I've put together could help people to do that.

"A big problem for many dieters is having to avoid chocolate and the other sweet things they love which often leads to a serious chocolate or sweetie binge.

"This study will help us to understand how easily people can get used to eating low-sugar chocolate and if they do get used to it will they loose lots of weight and keep it off because of the switch?"

Dr Stephen Fallows, overseeing the research project being run through the University of Chester, said milk chocolate bars would be used as a control in the study.

He added: "Eating a lot of dark chocolate is still not a good idea because it is high in fat - even though it might be much lower in sugar.

"But perhaps studies like this could help to show people how they can cut down on sweet fatty foods in their diet without feeling deprived which might lead to better eating habits that will contribute to sustainable weight-loss in the long term."

•To take part in the project call Christine on 07970 158625 or email chocolatestudy@btinternet.com.