A GROUP of slimmers have been named Halesowen’s Slimming World ‘Women of the Year’ thanks to their life-changing weight losses.

Joyce Bradley, Rose Evans, Claire Bennett and Jayne Funnell were all nominated for the competition having between them, losing six stone, eight pounds at the Tenterfields Primary School-based group.

The competition recognises the achievements of the thousands of women who are making long-term healthy lifestyle changes.

Joyce, who has gone from a dress size 16 to a 12, said: “When I started out I never dreamt I’d be able to achieve all that I have. Losing the weight has made such a big difference – it’s changed my life.

“My health is better, I have more energy and I’m much happier now – I definitely feel more comfortable in my own skin.”

Jayne Funnell has lost two-and-a-half stone so far and said she was blown away that the changes she has made have had such a big impact so quickly.

She added: “I feel like a different woman to the person who walked into Slimming World all those weeks ago, and being nominated for Woman of the Year is a real honour because there are so many amazing members in our group.

“I remember feeling like there was no hope when it came to my weight but I’ve realised that when people believe in you – and you believe in yourself – you can do anything you set your mind to.”

Ellie Hunt, who runs the Tenterfields Slimming World group, said: “I’m so proud of them all, as what they have achieved is nothing short of incredible.

“They a huge inspiration to everyone in our group and I hope an inspirational to other women – and men – in Halesowen to change their lives in the same way.”

For more information about the group, which meets every Wednesday at 7pm at Tenterfields Primary School, call Ellie on 07970 600763.