AFTER losing a combined five- and-a-half stone in the space of a few months, two slimmers are hoping to encourage others to follow their example. Deena Nicholson and Susan Drake will be running their own slimming groups in Stalham and Acle - inspiring others to improve their health and wellbeing.

AFTER losing a combined five- and-a-half stone in the space of a few months, two slimmers are hoping to encourage others to follow their example.

Deena Nicholson and Susan Drake will be running their own slimming groups in Stalham and Acle - inspiring others to improve their health and wellbeing.

Businesswoman Deena, who runs a photography company, gained weight after leaving home and surviving on a diet of takeaways and ready meals.

Now tipping the scales at 14st 7lb, Deena, from Repps, has lost four stone since joining her slimming group in January.

She said: “I felt very depressed at the beginning of the year because I was so overweight. I became very self-conscious and would make excuses rather than go out with my friends, but am far more confident now.

“The secret to successful weight loss is eating healthily. Now I cook fresh food and vegetables when before I was always eating convenience foods. I have still got a bit to go and want to lose another two-and-a-half stone by the time I get married to my fianc� Steve next year.”

The 25-year-old tried losing weight previously, but struggled counting and measuring calories everyday and was always hungry.

Postman fianc� Steve also has a spring in his step after shedding two stone as a result of Deena's changed culinary habits.

“My mum was really worried about my health and she encouraged me to go along with her to the local Slimming World group, added Deena. “I found out I could eat hundreds of everyday foods, enjoy meals out and still lose weight each week.

“I really looked forward to going along to the group each week - everyone was really supportive and I have made some great friends.”

Deena will be opening a brand new Slimming World group at Stalham High School on Wednesday.

Busy mum-of-two, Susan, 46, felt very unhappy and lethargic after gaining weight over the last two years.

She said: “I was gradually getting bigger and bigger, I dreaded looking in the mirror and I didn't want to go up another dress size and decided

to do something about it.

“I had tried to lose weight before on liquid diets, which worked to start with, but the weight went straight back on when I started to eat normal foods. I love all the foods that I can eat now. I don't have to cook separate meals for my family and I can still enjoy a glass of wine at the end of a busy day.”

A new consultant at the Acle Slimming World Group, Susan has become far more active, enjoys dancing and is preparing to take part in a show this month.

Call Deena on 01692 672155 or Susan on 01508 550499 for more details about the Slimming World groups.