A LOCAL woman has won Ross-on-Wye’s Slimming World Greatest Loser competition for 2026.

Gwyneth Gill who attends the Tuesday morning group, lost an amazing 5st 6lbs to date.

Gwyneth said: “I joined Slimming World when I saw an article about a member called Dawn losing over seven stone in weight so as to be her friend's bridesmaid.

At the same time, I’d gone to the care home (in lockdown!) to celebrate my mums 99th birthday and this became my before photo.

“I realised by then, that my excess weight was stopping me doing things. My asthma was worse and even bending down to tie up my boots was difficult as my belly got in the way and I couldn’t bend over easily.

“Size 24 clothes adorned my wardrobe, and I was disgusted that I’d got to 70 and I was as overweight as that.

“I also remember a visit to Malvern theatre as I sort of had to tuck my fat into my seat with me and it was so uncomfortable.

“I thought enough was enough and I decided to join Debra’s Slimming World group.

After being presented with an award to mark her achievement of losing 5st 6lbs Gill added: “Now in my mid 70s, I can walk my beloved childhood countryside of the Malvern Hills again, and I could dance until the last dance at my daughter’s wedding and get into size 12 jeans.

“My asthma has also vastly improved due to my weight loss and I can now bend over easily.”

If you too would love to feel the benefit of losing weight and improving your health and wellbeing, simply pop along to one of Debra Maloney’s Slimming World groups sessions are held at the Larruperz Centre every Monday at various times throughout the day and on Tuesdays at 7.30am and 9am. Contact her on 07895 257037 for more information.