A super slimmer is preparing to lead by example in Ellesmere Port with the launch of her new group.

Julie Leadbetter joined her local Slimming World group in Ellesmere Port four years ago and dropped from over 17 stone to 10st 10lb, for her daughter's wedding.

Julie did manage to lose 2.5 stone before the wedding, but decided that as she had originally joined to lose more, and had a target in mind, she carried on attending.

Even during Covid, Julie was an active member on the Zoom meeting every week, helping her stay on track as the group support was so vital.

Julie said that never giving up – even when she knew the week had been hard – turning up and staying to group, gave her the focus to carry on. The support and friendships she also built in the group gave her encouragement and she never felt she was alone on her journey.

Now trained as a consultant for Slimming World at their national training academy in Derbyshire, Julie is feeling excited and equipped to support her own group of members in Ellesmere Port.

The first class will be held at St Thomas and All Saints Church Hall, at 7pm from October 22.

Julie said: "Obesity is becoming such a huge issue across the UK. 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.

"After losing over six stone and completing my training, 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 and stay there.

"Support is really the most important thing. It all starts with feeling that you're not alone. I couldn't have lost over six 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.”

Julie added: "Like a lot of slimmers, I had tried to lose weight so many times spanning 30 years before by following numerous diets. I thought I was destined to struggle with my weight for the rest of my life, but when I came to Slimming World the last time it was different something clicked, and I never felt like I was on a diet.

"I love walking my dogs and attending with a local personal trainer, both online and Live classes to get my Body Magic in!

"As a consultant it's my role to create that warm, supportive atmosphere to get people sharing their ideas and experiences to help others - it's going to be great fun!"

There are currently around 4,000 Slimming World consultants across the UK and Ireland running 15,000 groups.

Christine Robinson-Lloyd who runs her Slimming World group also in Ellesmere Port and supports Julie as her team developer, said: "Slimming World Consultants are chosen for their positive outlook and because they genuinely care about the health and happiness of others.

"With Julie'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."

For more information or to join Julie’s group, visit the group on October 22 or call her on 07415 390159.