24 stones lost – and so much more! Meet Mansfield’s Slimming World Icons 2025

Gemma’s Slimming World groups in Mansfield and Mansfield Woodhouse have been absolutely buzzing after celebrating their amazing Slimming World Icons 2025! These members show just what’s possible with a bit of self-belief, loads of support and the magic of Food Optimising. Between them, they’ve lost over 24 stone – but their achievements go way beyond the numbers on the scales.

The groups meet every Tuesday at St John’s Centre and Thursday at The Sherwood Centre, and they’re known for being warm, welcoming and full of encouragement. This year’s Icons are Pete Wright (39), Elsa Peat (43), Debbie Hastings (62) and Kim Cutts (65) from Mansfield, plus Kim Clarke (48), Laura Palmer (54), Pauline Scott (66) and Keith Williams (79) from Mansfield Woodhouse.

Food Optimising is second nature for these members now, and they’ve all got their favourite go-to meals:

- Laura loves a big Slimming World–friendly full English – “fills me up for ages and it’s all Free!”

- Kim is all about her chilli packed with Speed, followed by a roulade that feels like a treat but still fits the plan.

- Pete enjoys chicken breast in a wrap with reduced-fat cheese and chips.

- Pauline swears by the cheesy chicken risotto from the Take 5 book – proper comfort food.

And the changes? Absolutely incredible. Elsa uses her inhaler less and loves being active. Pete’s foot pain has gone. Kim’s reduced her medication and has more energy for her granddaughter. Debbie’s joint pain has eased and she’s loving trying new clothes. Laura’s transformation is amazing – no walking stick, no sleep apnoea mask, and now she’s playing with her grandbabies, walking and swimming with her dog, and climbing stairs with ease. Keith and Kim have reversed diabetes, and Pauline feels healthier and more confident than ever.

What makes these groups so special? The support and the laughs. Elsa says, “Everyone is so supportive and Gemma is awesome.” Debbie adds, “We all understand and support one another because we’re on the same journey.” Laura says, “Whether you’re happy or down, they lift you up. We have a good old chat and a laugh – I look forward to it every week.”

Being crowned an Icon was emotional for every one of them. Elsa and Kim were overwhelmed, Pete was shocked (he only joined in May!), Debbie felt humbled, and Laura was buzzing to win for the second year running. Keith and Pauline said it gave them a real boost.

Gemma couldn’t be prouder: “Every one of our Icons is a worthy winner. From brand-new members to those maintaining target, it shows how much we inspire and support each other. Our groups really are like family.”

These amazing members remind everyone that success isn’t just about pounds lost – it’s about confidence gained, health improved and friendships made.