Trim couple among nation's top slimmers

Dave and Jacqui Wilmot, from Cannock, are one of 28 couples who made it to the national semi-finals at Slimming World’s head office in Derbyshire last month on May 20 where they represented Cannock after being voted by their fellow members to be the Slimming World group’s Couple of the Year 2018.

They missed out on being the overall winners but since joining the Heath Hayes Slimming World group, they believe the secret of their success was getting support from one another at home as well as in group every week.

Dave, 62, who lost 5st 4.5lbs, said: “While I had been uncomfortable with my weight for some time, mainly due to suffering from arthritis, I never really felt quite ready to do anything about it.

“However, as soon as I realised Jacqui was unhappy with her weight too, it made sense to try to tackle it together.

“Slimming World seemed the perfect fit for us. We could go as a couple and support each other along the way – as well as benefitting from all of the amazing support from our group. From the outset we started enjoying healthier home-cooked meals and it definitely wasn’t as difficult as I expected it to be.

“In fact, we could still enjoy family favourites like chicken curry, spaghetti Bolognese and even chips – we just made healthy swaps like switching to lean cuts of meat and using low calorie cooking spray instead of oil.

“The change in both of us has been remarkable. It is like we both have a whole new lease of life.”

Relief

Jacqui, 64, who lost 3st 12.5lbs, added: “I must admit it was almost a bit of a relief when I discovered Dave was prepared to join a local group too. Joining Slimming World was one of the best decisions we have ever made – we are making healthy changes together to give us both a brighter future, and that is an amazing feeling.”

“We have also become much more active and enjoy walking, sometimes up to 15 miles at a time. We’ve made small changes too like leaving the car at home and deciding to walk instead.

“We couldn’t believe it when we made it to the semi-finals, it’s way beyond what we could have imagined when we first decided to join Slimming World. We already feel like winners because we’ve won the biggest prize out there – we feel great and we know we’ve got a long, healthy, happy life to look forward to together now.”

“I’d recommend Slimming World to anyone who wants to lose weight. It doesn’t matter if you’re a man or a woman or young or old, the plan works for everyone. We even encouraged a friend of ours who was struggling with his weight to come along to group and he loves it. You’re sure to get a warm welcome from the other members. Our group has always been there for us, we pick up new recipes and tips every week and they’ve really helped to keep us on track.”

Proud

Lisa Davis, who runs the Heath Hayes Slimming World group that Dave and Jacqui attend, said: “I’m so proud of them both. They’ve really taken it upon themselves to motivate not only each other, but the rest of the group, too. I’d encourage any couples who are struggling with their weight to tackle the issue together – it honestly does make the world of difference to have someone you love and trust by your side. However, if not, there’s still a roomful of people in the same boat waiting to welcome you at Slimming World!

“Anyone who’s interested in finding out more about Slimming World is welcome at the St John’s Church Hall or call me on 07913723641 for more information.”

Slimming World’s Couple of the Year 2018 will be announced in due course.