I had been overweight for a few years and had enough of being fat and unfit, of being unable to do the things I enjoyed and of having difficulty in finding nice clothes to fit.

I have a disabled daughter and have been under a lot of stress since she was born. I think I used this as an excuse to eat and I never had much time for myself.

I decided to change my bad habits first and started attending a step aerobics class one evening a week instead of sitting in front of the telly. Then, I cut out all snacks and started eating sensibly. I lost a stone fairly quickly, but then stayed at this weight for ages.

I made the decision to go along to a slimming club to support a friend, but for my own health too. Last May, we both joined and I've since lost 47lbs.

I've also increased my exercise regime and attend at least three lunchtime aerobic/toning classes a week and two evening classes when time permits. This has helped to change my shape dramatically. I feel so much better for becoming healthy and now we enjoy family cycling days at weekends.