TWO County Durham slimming clubs are celebrating after members shed 10,000 pounds in a year.

Members of Bishop Auckland and Sedgefield Slimming World clubs have lost 714 stone this year by adopting a healthy eating and exercise plan.

Alison Cusick who runs both groups, described their achievement as being the perfect Christmas present to themselves and their loved ones.

She said: “We know that the run-up to Christmas is a busy time and often full of events, like Halloween, Bonfire Night and Christmas parties, that can easily throw your weight loss campaign off track – so much so that many people write off their weight loss wishes until New Year.

“Lots of people were surprised when, in October, we said it was possible to lose a stone or two before Christmas, even in the party season.

“Our members are proof it was possible and now they’re looking and feeling fantastic.”

Slimmer Sarah Neave, who reached her target weight during the Christmas campaign, added: “I can’t believe how different I feel in such a short time and I haven’t had to do anything drastic either, just make small easy changes to my eating and activity levels.”

The Bishop Auckland group meets at Bishop Auckland Cricket Club on South Church Road at 9.30am and 11.30am on Tuesday mornings.

The Sedgefield group meets at the Methodist Church Hall on North End at 5pm and 7pm on Tuesday evenings.

For more information contact Ms Cusick on 07785344499