Couple crowned slimmers of the year after losing 6st 7lbs

A couple whose weight 'crept up' over several years are celebrating after shedding six-and-a-half stones between them in the space of seven months.

Al and Jan Park, of Shutfield Road in Aqueduct, have now been crowned Madeley's Slimming World Couple of the Year after transforming their lives.

The pair, who have been married for 27 years, joined the group after realising their weight was putting their health at risk.

Al said: "We didn't suddenly wake up with a weight problem – like most people our weight crept up gradually.

"I think it's easy for couples to become comfortable with one another, and romantic meals and nights in with a bottle of wine take the toll on the waistline over time.

"But in April last year we both realised our size had reached a point where it was making us unhappy and we knew it was affecting our health," he said.

Al lost 5st and half a pounds, while Jan dropped 1st six-and-a-half pounds in seven months by following Slimming World's Food Optimising plan and swapping high calorie, fatty, sugary foods for healthy meals.

Al praised Linzi Pountney, who runs the Madeley group, for helping him lose the weight.

He said: "Linzi is the driving force behind Slimming World at Madeley and is a very inspirational consultant. Without her advice and encouragement, a lot of the members would not have achieved so much.

"I have never been a good dieter until embarking on Slimming World under the guidance of Linzi – in fact, Jan gave me a week.

"Yet here I am some 32 weeks later and more than five stone lighter and with 12 inches off my waist.

Jan said: "It's amazing how much we've both changed in such a short space of time and it hasn't been hard work – we still enjoy all of our favourite meals like roast dinners, curries and stir fries, we just cook them differently. It's never felt like being on a diet."

Linzi said: "They're real proof that slimmers are more successful when they lose weight with a friend or loved one. They've supported each other all the way."

The Madeley group meets every Wednesday at 5pm and 7pm. For details call Linzi on (01952) 591117.