Darwen Weight Watchers receives Diamond Leader award

Local Weight Watchers leader Lorraine Jones was recently awarded the Diamond Leader certificate in recognition for all the hard work put into running the local gathering.

The work Lorraine and others put into arranging the class, which gathers every Thursday at the Methodist Church, hasn't gone unnoticed as the winners of the Diamond Awards are chosen by reviewing member comments.

Lorraine says she is so proud of all her members and would like to thank them for any comments which may have helped gain the achievement. She says the award is in recognition of the success her members have had in their bid to lose weight.

Two members in particular stand out from the group after losing over 50lbs each in less than 7 months. Sarah, who lost 55lbs, and Denise, who lost 66lbs. Key to their success has been a change in lifestyle but they both still enjoy socialising with a drink or going out for a meal.


Sarah, whose before and after photographs can be seen above, says "You don't necessarily have to cut everything you enjoy from your diet as long as you're conscious of what you eat. Weight Watchers makes that possible with their points system"

"I gain encouragement by coming to the classes where we all share tips and offer each other support. I've met some good friends and we often chat to each other when we're passing in the street to see how we're doing."

Denise agrees with Sarah by adding "You don't need to cut back totally. As long as you exercise regularly and get your heart rate up. I use a heart rate monitor when walking and it's surprising what a brisk walk can do for you."

"The secret is maintaining a high level, it's no good exhausting yourself within minutes. In fact speed walking is better for you than running."


Both members, pictured above with Lorraine (right) and her Diamond Leader Award, say they have changed their lifestyles completely and won't be reverting back to their old ways now they've both achieved their goals.

Also pictured is Beryl (third from left) who has lost nearly 3 stone and has managed to keep the weight off for over 4 years.

"I'm still attending the classes even though I've lost more weight than I set in my original target. I enjoy coming to the classes where we all offer each other support." Sarah explained.

In addition to watching their daily intake of food, they both indicate that walking is now a big part of their lives by walking their dogs upto 4 miles per day and even more at the weekends. The good news for Darreners is that you don't have to travel very far to find a nice walk.

They both agreed that you can't beat a walk up to Darwen Tower then over the moors to Winter Hill - it's free and it's right on your doorstep!

Denise also offered one last tip for people looking to lose weight "Watch your salt intake - it makes your body retain more water, something which will increase with age anyway."

"And try to drink plenty of water throughout the day. I've replaced cups of coffee with water and sliced lemon, it has made me feel much better and helped me achieve my weight loss goal in less than 7 months" Sarah added.

Both members attend the morning sessions at the Methodist Church on the main road next to ATS Garage. In total there are three classes held there every Thursday, one morning class (9.30am-10.30am) and two evening classes (5pm-6pm and 6.30pm-7.30pm).

Anyone wishing to join any of the classes should contact Lorraine on 0845 345 1500 or email customerservices@weight-watchers.co.uk.

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