Online Corby slimming sessions see Clare zooming her way to weight-loss target

A Corby mum who missed out on a mother-daughter trip up the Sydney Harbour due to her weight and lack of fitness, has celebrated shedding seven stone in weight.

In June 2017, Clare Fortune, who weighed 19st 10lbs had travelled to Australia with her daughter, George, for a 'girls' holiday but she found walking around the tourist sites difficult.

Due to being unfit, Clare could not climb the famous bridge leaving her daughter to go it alone, and Clare vowing to improve her health.

Clare, 51, said: "I knew I had to do something and fast. When I got back to the UK, I signed up to Slimming World. I'd been a member before, and I knew it worked, but even as I joined, I expected to probably only stick to it for a while before eventually giving up - that's what always happened, didn't it?"

In just under three years, mum-of-two Clare has reached her seven stone loss target even continuing to lose weight in lockdown.

Within two weeks of joining the slimming group, Clare, an operations manager, had lost half a stone.

By the end of July, already a stone lighter, Clare decided to increase her fitness routine, she bought a fitness tracker and went out walking, a few weeks later she gained enough courage to join a gym.

She said: "It was daunting going in there where there were so many slim, fit people, but my coaches were supportive and I am so thankful I kept at it as now I'm taking extra exercise classes too and I am fit and healthy without aches and pains and enjoying life to the full.

"Gone are the days when I wore black baggy t-shirts and leggings to the gym. It's bright lycra all the way.

"I've always had a healthy appetite, and joining Slimming World I am thrilled to be able to eat loads of my favourite foods such as pasta, rice, and potatoes - and I really love a good spicy curry, all of which are 'Free Foods'."

Corby Slimming World consultant, Sonia Mathieson, who usually runs groups at West Glebe Pavilion, has moved her groups online using Zoom the video conferencing app.

Sonia said: "I am delighted to be able to keep providing support to all our members using Zoom and so pleased when Clare signed up.

"Just before we went into lockdown, Clare had lost 6sts 7lbs and two weeks in, she celebrated her seven stone award.

"I had the honour of celebrating our first lockdown target member with the rest of the group cheering on.

"During lockdown, Clare like so many others is working from home, but that has not stopped her one bit.

"We know the struggles our members face in everyday life, and now, lockdown members need our support all the more.

"Loneliness, boredom, frustration are very real struggles. Being able to talk face-to face in a group setting, just as we would in our usual groups is essential for that much needed support.

"In our online groups, we laugh, share ideas and support each other every week. Members who are struggling are getting back on track or who slip up, the others are there to help pick them up."

Clare and daughter George were due to return to Australia next month to retrace their steps up the Sydney Harbour Bridge but had to change their plans due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Clare added: "Without Slimming World I wouldn't be where I am now. It has given me confidence I never knew I had, and I never would have dreamed that I would be as active as I am now."

Anyone wanting to join one of Sonia's online groups can call her on 07867 791140 or click here to find the nearest group.

The weekly charge has been reduced to £2.50 a week, joining fee is £5 (includes new pack) or (already have a pack). NHS workers can attend for free.

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