Shropshire slimmers lose 28st in first three weeks

The 80 members of Baschurch Slimming World Group have lost the equivalent of about 65 house bricks in that time.

They have been following Slimming World's food optimising eating plan, which encourages them to fill up on foods such as pasta, rice, potatoes, lean meat and fish, pulses and fruit and veg.

Tracy Jones has lost 12lbs in three weeks and says the group has made a massive difference to members' lives.

She said: "Filling up on lots of satisfying foods means you're never hungry so I've never felt as though I was on a diet.

"Before I joined Slimming World I thought losing weight meant going to the gym and counting calories. But now I know it's about making healthier choices about food and becoming a bit more active.

"Reaching this milestone as a group just proves the huge change that we've all made to our lives, some people who've lost big amounts of weight have probably even saved their lives.

"It's brilliant to celebrate together as well because that's how we've been losing weight – together. Every week we support and encourage each other and share tips and recipes, and on top of that we have a lot of fun. The support and inspiration we get from our consultant has also been integral to our success.

"Because she's lost weight herself, she understands the ups and downs of slimming and can offer us help and advice based on her own experience, without her I don't think we'd have achieved nearly as much."

The group was set-up by consultant Sharon Randall on January 27 and meets at Baschurch Primary School every Monday at 5.30pm and 7.30pm.

The 40-year-old, from Wem, said: "I'm delighted that my members have lost weight so beautifully.

"It has made a big difference to their lives and to their whole families' lives, and all of them are happier and healthier now.

"Slimming has never been more important. There are so many overweight and obese people in Shropshire and I just want to help even more people to make real changes for life – there's no better job satisfaction than that."

To join call (01939) 235551.