A SUPER slimmer who lost an incredible ten stone is hoping to inspire others to do the same.

Rachael Critchley joined Lynne Hunt's Earlybird Slimming World group in April 2017 after becoming increasingly worried about the effect her weight could have on her health.

She swapped the snacks and pastry, favouring healthier recipes.

The results speak for themself.

Rachael told the Globe: "The reason I first started Slimming World was because I knew if I carried on, these conditions were waiting in my future.

"I was amazed by how much I can eat and still lose weight. I still eat many of the same meals that I did before I started losing weight, like Spaghetti Bolognese or roast dinners.

"Now I just prepare and cook them differently – and they taste so much better. I never have to miss out and I don’t have to get hung up on weighing and measuring everything I eat.”

“I've swapped my old snacky breakfast choice of a pastry and latte to fruit and bottled water – or a full English breakfast when I feel like it.

"I've picked up lots of new healthy recipes from the other members at my Slimming World group, too. And I can do so much more - When I walk, I don't feel out of breath and sweaty.

"Before, if a double decker bus came along which was full downstairs, I'd wait for the next one. Now I hop on and sprint my way up to the top deck!"

Rachel now has far more confidence now, and the difference is plain to see as she helps inspire new members and make them welcome.

"I know a lot of people worry about joining a slimming club because they don't know what to expect.

"Right from the first moment I walked into Lynne's Slimming World group I felt comfortable though, and the support I've received from the Earlybirds been amazing.

"I look forward to going each week to catch up with all of my new friends and share tips, recipes and advice.

"I just love it!"

More than half of all women in the UK and Ireland (58%) are overweight and a quarter of women’s weight is so high it risks impacting on their health by increasing their chances of developing a range of conditions including diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

Lynne Hunt, whose Earlybird group has recently moved to Laird Street Baptist Church, where, in a strange twist of fate, Rachael spent so much of her childhood, said: "I'm so proud of Rachael.

"She's a fantastic ambassador for Slimming World and what she's achieved is nothing short of incredible.

"She's a huge inspiration to everyone in our group and I hope she inspires other women – and men – in Birkenhead to change their lives in the same

The Earlybirds meet 7.30am and 9.30am every Friday and Saturday morning at Laird St Baptist Church in Birkenhead. To join or find out more call Lynne on 07746 870 590.