A County Durham woman has spoken of how a weigh loss programme has helped her shed a significant amount of weight and keep it off long-term.

Maria Hartley, from Bishop Auckland, lost more than 8 stone after using the services on offer from Slimming World.

Ms Hartley, who attends Judith Box’s Slimming World group in Shildon, added she would not have lost the weight without the help of her group and consultant.

She said the approach has been the most effective she had used in keeping weight off after years of trying to lose weight.

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Ms Hartley said: “I’ve tried lots of ways to lose weight over the years, from pills to calorie counting. I was always looking for an easy option and quick fix without thinking about the habits I needed to change long term.

“I was terrified of the thought of going hungry or missing out. With Slimming World you can still eat lots of food and I really have never had to miss out.

“For me planning is the key. I love the variety with Slimming World. I never get bored and I never feel restricted.

“I still socialise, I just plan in the event and now choose different, healthier options.”

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She praised the support offered to her by her Shildon group who have been with her through every milestone.

Ms Hartley said she does not have a “healthy relationship” with food but the help she has received has made a huge difference.

She added she now thinks about what she needs to avoid and what she can have, rather than eating things which she finds difficult to put down.

She said having the feeling of control over her diet has helped her control her weight and move forward.

“The feeling of being in control without being restricted or missing out is actually really liberating,” she added.

“I have made such good friends who give me a hug when I need it or just message me - it is my support network and I stay to group every week for that support.

“We share our experiences and our feelings; we understand each other and genuinely care for each other.”

She added since losing the weight she has become more mobile, is able to put on clothes with ease and can “walk for 5 miles when before I couldn’t walk for 50 metres.”

Adding to this, she said she no longer suffers from back and knee pain, or heartburn – all of which had previously plagued her.

She said: “I could cry for the shell of a person I once was.

“I wish I could write her a letter and tell her how much I love her and what her life would be like.”

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Judith Box, Ms Hartley’s consultant said: “I’m so proud of what Maria has achieved. She is such an inspiration to others. 

“So many people believe that a ‘diet’ automatically means missing out.

“I love it when members join our groups and realise you really don’t have to miss out with Slimming World.”