However, the number of people dying in the region with obesity-related illnesses is thought to be far higher.

In 2008, the deaths of 10 people in the Kingdom were directly linked to obesity according to death certificates.

The statistics - released as part of an answer to a parliamentary question posed by the Liberal Democrats - cover deaths where obesity was recorded either as the underlying cause of death or as a contributory factor.

Public heath minister Shona Robison said the figures were probably an underestimate of deaths from obesity-related illness, because obesity is known as a risk factor in the development of a wide range of diseases including coronary heart disease, types of cancer, stroke and hypertension.

Dr Graham Ball, Consultant in Public Health for NHS Fife, said: "These numbers only include deaths where obesity was a stated factor.

"This does not necessarily take into account the significant mortality from chronic diseases where being overweight or obese can play an important role. These include diabetes, heart disease and some cancers.

"There is a range of work in Fife to promote physical activity and healthy eating from childhood upwards to try and reduce the incidence of these chronic diseases in later life.

He added: "On the physical activity side we have the exercise referral scheme which will offer physical activity opportunities for families across Fife. There is also a wide range of programmes offered within schools and communities."

Deaths linked directly to obesity had risen by almost a third in 2008, from the previous five years.