A SLIMMER from Thurrock who transformed her life by losing almost two stone after having her third child is using her success to shape a whole new career.

Nichola Winner joined her local Slimming World group in Aveley three years ago and dropped from 11 stone 4lb to 9 stone 7lb.

Now, she has trained as a consultant for Slimming World and she will be taking over the group on 8 October.

The latest government figures reveal that around one in four adults are obese and it is estimated that, by 2034, this will increase to one in three. 75.9% of Thurrock's population is now overweight or obese, and Nichola says her new role has never been more important.

She says: "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 almost two 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.

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

"Like a lot of slimmers, I had tried to lose weight so many times before by following numerous diets but they were never sustainable because I'd always get tired of restricting what I ate. I thought I was destined to struggle with my weight for the rest of my life, but when I came to Slimming World it was different. I never felt like I was on a diet. The eating plan encourages you to eat lots of tasty, filling foods like pasta, rice, potatoes and lean meat and fish, you are never hungry and no foods are banned so there's no deprivation. I couldn't believe I'd found a way to lose weight without starving myself.

Nichola says she can't wait for the new challenges running her own business will bring, saying: "For me becoming a self-employed franchisee was a great option. I wanted a job that was well paid, flexible and could fit around my busy family life and my other part time job so launching my own Slimming World group was an ideal option – I feel like I've got a brand new career and I can't wait for my new group to run now!"

Beverly Howell, who runs Slimming World's Grays group and manages Nichola as a Team Developer, says: "Slimming World Consultants are chosen for their positive outlook and because they genuinely care about the health and happiness of others. With Nichola'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."

Nichola's s Slimming World group will be held at Aveley Village Social Club every Thursday morning from 8 October. For more information or to join Nichola's group call 07584358834.