A Meldreth mum-of-two who transformed her life by losing 6½ stone at the village Slimming World group, is using her success to help others achieve their weight loss dreams too.

Alison Walker signed up to the weight-loss group and dropped from 17st 3lbs to 10st 10lbs in just under two years.

“After getting married in October 2013, having been at my heaviest, I didn’t want to look like a beached whale on our honeymoon to Singapore and Thailand the following April so I knew something needed to change,” she said.

The Melbourn Village College cover teacher said she tried to lose weight many times before but it was never sustainable because she’d always get tired of restricting her food, but said on Slimming World she never feels deprived.

“It fits in so well with family life,” Alison said.

“The food I cook is enjoyed by my children – aged 16 and four – and my husband Rob managed to lose more than two stone by eating what I had prepared. It is nice to know that the whole family are following a healthier eating plan, even if they don’t know it!”

She said the students at school were also impressed by her weight loss and now think she’s younger than PE teacher husband Rob, who also works at the school – when he’s actually six years her junior.

Alison has trained as a consultant for Slimming World and members at the Meldreth group are getting ready to welcome her when she takes over the group tomorrow.

“Obesity is becoming such a huge issue across the UK,” she said.

“When I first joined Slimming World as a member, I never dreamed that I would end up helping other people to lose weight but now I just can’t wait to get started. It’s a privilege for me to be able to pass on the experience, insight and understanding that helped me, so that I can give my members the support they need to get to target.

“Support is really the most important thing. It all starts with feeling that you’re not alone.

“I couldn’t have lost 6½ stone without the weekly help, encouragement and understanding of my own consultant and group. As someone who has lost weight myself I know the challenges people can face, which is why, along with the group, I will be there to support every one of my members all the way to their chosen target weight.

Setting targets, sharing recipes and other ideas, and working together as a group to overcome challenges and celebrate success is so important to a successful journey – that’s why, at my Slimming World group, there’ll be tons of support, encouragement and fun.”

Sandra Lloyd of Slimming World North Herts manages Alison in her new role.

“Slimming World consultants are chosen for their positive outlook and because they genuinely care about the health and happiness of others,” said Sandra.

“With Alison’s experience of being a successful Slimming World member and her kind and warm personality and great sense of humour I just know that she’ll be an amazing support to members, cheering them all the way to their target weight.”

Alison’s Slimming World group will be held at Meldreth Village Hall every Wednesday, from tomorrow, at 5.30pm and 7.30pm.

For more information or to join Alison’s group either pop along on Wednesday 15th March or call her on 07812 825389.