“For as long as I can remember, I have had to battle with my weight. I was the teenager with puppy fat that never disappeared. Over the years, weight went on and off. About thirteen years ago I lost over six stone by following a low fat diet; yet again that went back on.

I hated being overweight but always found it difficult to lose and keep it off. I got in to a routine of lose a stone, put it back on.

After talks to friends who had joined Curves I felt that I would give it a go, but it was still a few months before I decided – along with my Mum – to see what Curves was all about.

I remember that first day; I didn’t want to go. I suppose you think gym and think slim people, but how wrong can you be. Everyone was so friendly and encouraging; it didn’t matter what size you were. Soon I got in to the routine of going to Curves three times a week and, along with a low fat diet, the inches and pounds started to fall off. It hasn’t been easy, but I stuck with it and have now lost 78lbs and 81 inches, going down many dress sizes.

I have some more weight to lose but I know, with support of everyone at Curves, that I can reach my goal. My life has changed for the better – I am healthier and fitter.”