Mansfield slimmers celebrate success after shedding more than 22 stone

Among the slimmers is David Lindsay, who joined the group 18 months ago with serious health issues.

He was told losing weight would help and he has now lost a life-changing seven stone.

He said: “The group is like one big family who support each other, give advice and plenty of support.

“My respiratory problem has vastly improved and my diabetes is under control without the need of medication.”

Jo Clark joined Slimming World after her office job meant she put on weight over the years.

For her, the weight loss journey was crucial and may have helped to save her life as she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

She said: “To date I have lost four stone, ten pounds and have a few more pounds to target.

“Despite being in lockdown and having been diagnosed with breast cancer, that hasn't stopped my determination to get there.

“If I hadn't lost the weight, I wouldn't have found the lump so it has saved my life. I would recommend Slimming World to anyone. The fantastic support I've had from members has been truly humbling.”

Another slimmer, Jade Carter, decided to lose weight after seeing a photo of herself that made her “want to cry”. She has now lost more than four stone.

She said: “I was unhappy, fat and miserable and I needed to do something.

“I may not be where I want to be but I’m a long way from where I was and I’m happy to be me.”

Kerry Smith, from the Shirebrook group, struggled with weight loss most of her life and has now lost more than six stone with Slimming World.

She said: “I tried many weight loss plans and gimmicks over the years but to no avail. At times my weight loss was slow but with the encouragement of everyone in group, I stuck to the plan.

“I now feel better than I have in years.”

Visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk for more information and to find out more about joining your local group.