Madam, The response to the articles and advertisements in January has been fabulous. Across the three groups I have welcomed 123 new friends and they lost over 800lbs. I cannot thank you enough for your support and it inspired me to write a poem.

I'd like to extend my thanks to you,

The Ross Gazette, Charlotte and the crew,

For the support this year you've shown to us

Has led to help for 120 plus!

That's how many people you've inspired

To start the journey to the shape they desire.

Your ads and stories, as always exemplary,

Has increased resolve to triumph this January.

With ages from 11 to grandma

800 lbs they've shed so far.

The success is so great a new group has begun

The Larruperz at 4pm's the new place to come.

So a very big thank you is what we all cry

From Slimming World Newent and Ross-on-Wye

For showing your readers how much you care –

We'll soon have more stories of success to share!

Susan Holdcroft, Ross