SUPER slimmer Sheila Harbridge is half the woman she was two years ago.

She decided enough was enough when, just months after the event, she outgrew a size 24 suit bought for her 50th birthday.

She signed up for an Atherton Slimming World class, reduced to a svelt size 12, and is now an inspiration to new members.

The wheelchair user, who went along to the Sailors' and Soldiers' Club class, is now almost six stones lighter, thanks to a new and healthy diet, and her own inventiveness.

Sheila, of Tintern Avenue, Astley, who suffers from back problems, invents her own tasty low-fat delights to share with class members.

This week she created her own ice cream, a frozen yoghurt, and also makes her own versions of chocolate treats.

Because of her incapacity, Sheila thought she was not getting enough exercise and would not be able to shed the pounds.

She said: "I went on my own to join the class and was very nervous because I thought I would be the biggest there.

"When the consultant introduced me to the plan and I saw how much I could eat without exercise, I thought it was a joke.

"I got on the scales and couldn't believe how much I weighed. I cried all the way home.

"After a year of eating curries and roast dinners, I had lost five and a half stones.

"People who I haven't seen for ages walk past me in the street, but my six children and eight grandchildren think I look absolutely fabulous,"

Sheila, who was voted woman of the year by classmates, still attends the weekly Tuesday class to maintain her new look and to spur others on.

Consultant Anna Thompson said: "The encouragement she gives to everyone is great.

"We are very proud of what she has achieved."

For class details, ring Anna on 01942 675961. 'I got on the scales and couldn't believe how much I weighed. I cried all the way home' SUPER SLIMMER: Sheila Harbridge, before and after