JANET Nolan was always game for a laugh and ready to join in with any fun going.
But she certainly wasn't laughing when clambered onto a kiddie's Bouncy Castle only to find she and couldn't jump up and down because she was too heavy!
Although she had had a weight problem for years, Janet, of Wargrave Road, Newton-le-Willows had simply ignored it. But the problem - like her waistline - was getting ever-bigger and at just 5ft 1in tall she was having to wear size 22 clothes and feeling pretty miserable about it.
Then, at her local playgroup, she saw a leaflet for Weight Management slimming classes and decided to give it a go.
Just a week after joining she was amazed to find that she'd lost 3lbs - despite enjoying herself at a party - and from then on she never looked back.
Now, 10 months later, she has lost an incredible five stones and has ditched her size 22s for size 8s!
Janet recalled how her weight problem had affected her enjoyment of her nephew's wedding some time ago. She said: "That was another turning point for me. I was really uncomfortable with the outfit that I had to wear. It was yellow and a size 20 and I thought it made me look very old and very fat.
"I was happy for my nephew and wanted him to be centre of attention but couldn't help feeling that all the guests' eyes were on me because of my size.
"I also hated having my photo taken when I was overweight. I had to be pinned down at my son's 18th birthday party so they could take my picture. Now, I love being in front of the camera showing off the new me."
Class manager Pat Hanson, said: "Weight Management's simple-to-follow eating plan and their motivating, informative classes provide slimmers with the expertise and motivation needed to achieve safe and healthy weight loss - for life.
"So, if, like Janet, you want to put some more bounce into your step and shed a few pounds or stones, you can come along to Newton-le-Willows Family and Community Centre, Park Road South on Tuesdays at 10am and 7.30pm. Or you can call for details of other Weight Management classes in your area on Freephone 0800 36 26 36. Registration is free until December 24 and classes cost only £2.50 a week."
Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
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