Caerphilly slimmer Melanie Jones has used her weight loss success to spur on not only herself with a new career but also others wishing to follow in her footsteps.

Miss Jones joined her local Slimming World group in Bargoed in January 2018. On her decision to join Slimming World, she said: “I had struggled with my weight for a long time and had kind of given up trying, but then Santa (my mum) bought me a 12 week countdown for Christmas so off I went to Bargoed group run by the lovely Tracey!”

The 12-week countdown is a program where you block book 12 weeks and pay for 10. At the time of joining, Miss Jones weighed in at 15st 1 ½lb. With support and guidance from the Bargoed group, Miss Jones shed a marvellous 4 ½st to top the scales at a much healthier 10st 13 ½lbs.

Miss Jones is delighted at reaching her target. She said: “I can’t tell you how happy getting to target has made me! I've found a new love of high street shopping and being able to do activities with my little boy, brings me so much joy! I've gained so much confidence, I've gone for a complete transformation now and even the long shapeless hair I used to hide behind is gone!”

So delighted with her success, she has spent time training to be a Slimming World consultant and will be taking over a group of keen slimmers in Abercarn from April 24.

"Obesity is becoming such a huge issue across Wales. When I first joined, I never dreamed I might be in a position to help others to lose weight but I can’t wait to get started. After losing over 4st it's a privilege to be able to share what I have learned and experienced and to give my members the support they need in order to get to target" said Miss Jones

"Support in group is the most important part. I could not have lost 4st without the weekly help encouragement and understanding of my own group and consultant. I understand the challenges and will be there to support each and every one if my members all the way to their chosen target. Group is about sharing encouragement and most of all fun, and that's exactly what will be available at my group"

I tried many times over the years to lose weight and thought i was destined to struggle for the rest of my life, but Slimming World is different. It’s not a diet but a plan full if free food offering tasty filling food that we all eat every day. Plenty of variety and no deprivation.

Slimming World is also about being active and our Body Magic programme shows members how they can introduce activity into their daily routine, washing the car, gardening increasing activity levels doesn't have to be a slog!”

Miss Jones aims to provide a warm and friendly welcome to all who wish to join. The group will be held at Abercarn RFC every Wednesday at 18.30 from 24th April.

To join or for more information, pop along to group or call Mel on 07969 846689