THOSE who have stoutly resisted the New Year injunction to get fit are having the last laugh.

Society's sloths are constantly chided for their habit of curling up on the sofa in front of the box.

Fitter friends and glossy magazines insist such self-indulgence will end in an early grave.

Now German researchers insist that a more sedentary approach actually lengthens lives.

Across Yorkshire this report will be toasted with beer - paid for by money saved on gym fees.

Updated: 11:35 Wednesday, January 12, 2005