A WOMAN who got her life back after finally beating a battle with the scales is hoping to help other people do the same in Northwich.

Fiona Gerrard, who lives in Winsford, managed to lose almost four stone after finally taking the plunge and joining her local Slimming World group several years ago.

Having experienced the joy of transforming how she looked and felt about herself, Fiona is now keen to help others do the same by setting up the town's first Saturday morning group.

"I never thought I would feel happy and content with the way I looked and felt about myself but here I am," she said.

"As with any slimmer there’s always a lightbulb moment and mine was a holiday in Mexico in December 2017.

"Unhappy, uncomfortable and hating the way I looked, I was scared of having my picture taken and hid myself in the biggest and baggiest clothes.

"I knew I had to do something as my life was spiralling out of control, I half heartedly attempted to gain control but it was March 2018 when my magical journey began."

Northwich Guardian: Fiona Gerrard has started Northwich's first ever Saturday morning Slimming World group

Fiona Gerrard lost almost four stone in six months

Living on the Wirral at the time, 53-year-old Fiona, who works for a timber import business, joined a Slimming World group and being around supportive people, she also made some amazing friends in the process.

She added: "I totally embraced the plan and there was nothing that was going to get in my way this time.

"I’d been a member of many groups in the past but this time was very different.

"In six months I’d lost 3 stone 9lb and achieved my target.

"That was something I’d only ever dreamt about.

"To be able to go into Next and buy size 14 clothes and knowing they fit was just an amazing feeling.

"I want people to know if I can do this, anyone can.

"Just believe in yourself.

"That’s when I decided I wanted to help and support others to feel the way I feel and I became a Slimming World Consultant in November 2019."

Having recently moved back to Winsford, Fiona was offered the opportunity to run a brand new Saturday morning group based at Moss Farm.

Northwich Guardian:

Fiona said she feels so much better about herself after shedding four stone

She said: "One thing the pandemic taught me was wanting to be closer to friends and family, so I moved back to Winsford.

"I was offered the chance to run a new Slimming World group in Northwich, which has never had a Saturday morning one before.

"Slimming World really helps you to make healthier changes.

"Especially with Covid, it makes you think, if you're on the obese side or are overweight, you can be struck down with it quite badly.

"I've also had members who were type-2 diabetic and that is something you can reverse with the right diet so you don't have to take any medication.

"It's all about eating healthier and changing your lifestyle.

"I wanted to share my story in the hope that something will encourage anyone to make that first step to start their own weight loss journey."

If you would be interested in joining the group, which is open to all, you can contact Fiona on 07857978627.