A WOMAN has been congratulated after losing three and a half stone whilst improving her mental health at a slimming group.

Paula Hughes joined the Mayland Slimming World group in January 2022 and has gone from a size 20 to a size 12.

She has transformed her life and now does two daily walks with her dog and is getting more physically active.

She holds the Platinum Body Magic Award, which is given to members for making active living part of their daily routine and sticking to it.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Paula before: before her Slimming World journeyPaula before: before her Slimming World journey (Image: Mayland Slimming World)

Paula also says her mental health has improved since joining the group.

She said: “I have struggled with my mental health for many years which led to comfort eating, weight gain, discomfort and negativity, which added to my poor mental health.

“Being overweight impacted on so many aspects of my life, from worrying about my health, struggling to find clothes to fit to not being able to do simple, everyday tasks without feeling out of breath.

“I always felt like I was lacking energy, and like I was on a slippery slope to gaining more and more weight – I didn’t really see a way out.

“The welcome I received from fellow members and my consultant at my local group was incredible.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Paula transformed: Paula glowing after losing three and a half stonePaula transformed: Paula glowing after losing three and a half stone (Image: Mayland Slimming World)

“We share recipes and ideas for getting active, and it’s useful to get tips from other members.

“With the support of other members and Kay, I made some simple changes to the way I shopped, cooked and eat, and was encouraged to get more active. This really improved my mental well-being and health.

“I just love that I can still enjoy my favourite meals, especially a tasty chicken chow mien fakeaway.”

The Mayland Slimming World groups are held every Tuesday at 3.30pm, 5.30pm and 7pm and Wednesday at 9.30am at St Barnabas' Family Centre. To join or find out more call Kay on 07889 143934.