BEING the only man at a weight loss group was daunting, but support from fellow slimmers has been invaluable for a Startforth man on a mission to lose a weight before Christmas.
Peter Stevens joined the Slimming World group run by Paula Rusling at St Mary’s parish hall, in Barnard Castle, six weeks ago.
He said: “It was quite daunting when I came to the first meeting with a room full of women. But they’ve all been fantastic. Very supportive and it’s working.”
So far, the 50-year-old has managed to lose half a stone in weight.
“I decided to drop a couple of stone mainly so I can keep up with the family. It’s been great. I turn up, get weighed follow all the advice and pick up tips and it works.”
Ms Rusling runs two sessions at the parish hall in Newgate, Barnard Castle, every Tuesday. She is launching a new Saturday 9am session on October 28, which will be held at the Workingmen’s Club, and she anticipates there will be more men.
She said: “What we try to promote is steady and consistent weight loss. We’ve got a few members who hit their target, but continue to attend to ensure they don’t slip back.
“There are many reasons people sign up to Slimming World, it’s not just losing weight. The benefits that some of our members have experienced are life changing.
“One lady has managed to reverse her diabetes diagnosis and another has been able to reduce the amount of medication she is on.
“We also have an active social side and the support everyone gives each other is a big help.”
For more information or to sign up contact Ms Rusling on 07906 847929.
