Super-slimmer Barbara’s using her success to inspire others

Barbara Barnes joined her local Slimming World group in Easington Colliery five years ago and dropped from size 20 to size 10.

Three years ago, Barbara trained as a consultant for Slimming World, taking over the group where she lost her weight, and has gone from strength to strength.

Now she is opening her second group at Easington Methodist Church, Seaside Lane, Easington Colliery, on Wednesdays at 9.30am.

Barbara 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.  

“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.

“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 filling foods like pasta, rice, potatoes and lean meat and fish. You are never hungry.

“My weight loss has completely changed my life.

“I always thought I was happy being big and this was the size I was meant to be, but it wasn’t until I found slimming world and lost the weight that I felt truly happy and realised that this is the size I was meant to be, not only am I healthier and happier but my family is healthier and happier.

Barbara’s new Slimming World group starts on October 28.

Her other group is held every Wednesday at Easington Church of Ascension church hall, Seaside Lane, at 5.30pm and 7.30pm

For more information, turn up to the classes or call Barbara on 07949 396923.