A group of West Cumbrian slimmers have lost an astounding 10,000lb between them in the last 12 months.
They are members of Cockermouth’s Slimming World community, led by consultant Kim Mattinson.
Kim had lost 10 stones after a suspected heart attack sparked her inspiring weight loss journey.
The 40-year-old tipped the scales at 20 stones and was also struggling with asthma, a family history of heart disease and diabetes.
When she had what she believed to be a heart attack it served as an alarming wake-up call and she knew that she had to alter her lifestyle.
With a family history of heart disease and diabetes, she had seen first-hand the devastating impact of these conditions and did not want history to repeat itself.
She said: “I took over the local groups last year with a clear vision: to create more than just a place to lose weight, but a supportive, welcoming community where people can truly belong.
“Twelve months on, that vision is not only thriving — it’s transforming lives.
“Collectively, members of the Cockermouth groups have shed over 10,000lb, a milestone that reflects dedication, resilience, and the power of shared encouragement.”
To mark the groups’ first birthday, she held a charity auction evening last month at the Broughton Craggs Hotel which brought together more than 100 members, supporters, and locals for to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation.
It raised £5,000 for the charity.
Kim added: “Slimming World has always been about far more than weight loss. It’s about forming a community.
“A safe place, free from judgement, where people can be themselves, build confidence, and form friendships they might never have had otherwise.”
