A SUPER slimmer from Launceston has been awarded the title of Diamond Member of the Year 2017 for setting a sparkling example of long-term weight loss.

Vera joined the St John Ambulance Hall Slimming World group in March 2008 and lost 6st. Even more impressively, she’s kept the weight off ever since.

Now the 76-year-old, who dropped from 17st 10lbs to 11st 10lbs, has been named the group’s Diamond Member 2017 and Woman of the Year.

The title is awarded to the group’s most inspirational member who has lost weight and maintained their new shape — an accomplishment that Slimming World believes is the most under-recognised achievement in weight management — as voted for by the slimmers in the group.

Vera decided to join Slimming World after she retired from nursing and began to put on weight. She dropped from size 22 to size 12/14.

She said: “When I first came to the group I found it hard to believe I’d ever reach my target weight because I’d tried so many diets before and they’d never worked for me. Of course what I really had to learn is that quick-fix diets don’t work, I needed to completely change my lifestyle and that’s exactly what Slimming World has taught me to do. Plus, I’ve received so much support from my wonderful group.

“Sharing tips and ideas has definitely helped me maintain my weight loss. Each week in group I pick up new ideas and recipes — even now after nine years at target! My life is completely unrecognisable now and I’m happier, healthier and fitter than ever.”

Vera began following Slimming World’s Food Optimising eating plan, which encourages slimmers to fill up on healthy, satisfying foods like fruit and veg, pasta, rice, potatoes, lean meat and fish so they lose weight without going hungry or feeling deprived. Vera said: “I still eat the same way today and I’ve passed lots of healthy habits on to my family and friends too.”

As the weight came off she decided to try increasing her activity levels. Vera began slowly by walking a little each day until being active was part of her routine. Now she now walks regularly, which she believes has been important in helping her to maintain her weight loss.

Likewise, since reaching her target weight in September 2009 Vera has continued to attend the Thursday 10am group and believes without its constant support she would have struggled to keep the weight off.

Vera said: “I’ve made so many friends that I can’t imagine not going to the group each week, they’re like a family to me now. Everyone inspired and supported me to achieve my target and now it’s my turn to do the same for other people, to show the same kindness, warmth and compassion that I was shown. It’s not completely selfless though, coming to group keeps me on track too and we always have a lot of fun.”

Kate Elston, who runs the Thursday group, which Vera attends, said: “I’m so proud of Vera and the inspirational way in which she’s maintained her weight loss. It’s always great for new members to meet Vera and see just what’s possible at Slimming World — after we’ve explained why someone so slim is in the group in the first place, that is! I hope she inspires other people in Launceston too.”