A woman from Oldham is celebrating after losing a 'life-changing' amount of weight in just 12 months. 

Louise Mills from Shaw said signing up to Slimming World in January last year has "changed my life" as she's managed to shred an impressive seven stone.

Louise, who attends Shaw's Slimming World group on Wednesday evenings, said: "I feel like a different woman to the person who walked into Slimming World.

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"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."

The 39-year-old joined the group after becoming unhappy with her weight after the pandemic.

In the last 12 months, her health has improved, she's lost several dress sizes and was even recently crowned the group's 'greatest loser' in its competition. 

The Oldham Times: Louise says her health has improved since losing weightLouise says her health has improved since losing weight (Image: Slimming World/Louise Mills)

Louise continued: "My health is better, I have more energy and I'm much happier now.

"I feel so much more comfortable in my own skin.

"I knew that, with Slimming World, I never have to miss out and I don’t have to get hung up on weighing and measuring everything I eat.

"My family and friends are amazed at how much I can eat and still lose weight, like spaghetti bolognese, curries and roast dinners.

"I just prepare and cook them differently and they taste so much better."

Linda Greaves, who runs the Shaw groups on Wednesday evening and Thursday morning in the United Reformed Church on Rochdale Road, said: "I’m so very proud of Louise.

"She’s a fantastic ambassador for Slimming World and what she’s achieved is nothing short of incredible.

"She’s a huge inspiration to everyone in our group and I hope her achievement inspires other women – and men – to change their lives in the same way.

"I can promise there’s a whole group of people waiting to support them every step of the way."

Louise added: "I know a lot of people worry about joining slimming clubs because they don’t know what to expect.

"Right from the moment I walked into Linda’s group, I felt comfortable and the support I’ve received has made the difference.

"I look forward to going each week."

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