North Derbyshire nurse loses 6st in 35 weeks through healthy eating, dog walking and support from Slimming World group

Sharon Trickett, who lives in Calow, was a dress size 26 when she joined Slimming World. She said: “I was tired all the time. My knees and back ached if I walked far. Some of my friends were diagnosed as diabetic and high blood pressure and weren’t as big as me and I didn’t want to end up the same.”

Biscuits with her morning coffee, crisps and bread were Sharon’s weaknesses, Now she is eating more fruit and veg than she used to, while allowing herself an occasional little treat.

Sharon, who is 58 and single, said that the key to her weight loss was signing up for Slimming World sessions which she started in September 2023. She said: “I attend Calow group on a Monday evening with Rachel Plevey. The group sessions have really helped and encouraged me to continue on my weight loss journey.”

She lost six and a half pounds during her first week with Slimming World and clocked up her 6st loss within 35 weeks. Sharon said: "I’ve still got a way to go but I’m over half way to where I want to be at my target.

“My sister has supported me all the way. She always rings or texts Monday evening after weigh-in to see how I’ve done. My work family encourage me and congratulate me on my milestones as well.

"My weight loss has also encouraged some of my friends to start their own weight loss journey."

Sharon, who is now a dress size 16, said that walking further with her dog helped her to lose weight. “I have increased my activities, doing pilates and water pilates and swimming weekly. I feel healthier, mentally as well,” she added.

*Slimming World sessions are held at Calow Community Centre on Allpits Road on Mondays at 5.30pm. For further information, contact Rachel on 07729002264.

*A church hall in Alfreton hosted the first ever Slimming World meeting in 1969. Margaret Miles-Bramwell, who founded Slimming World, remains a driving force in the company which runs groups throughout the UK and Ireland.