SLIMMING champion and cook Marion Hoyle has combined her two passions without any fear of contradiction.

She has opened a low-calorie bistro next to a gym.

Her latest venture, Unique Lite Bite Bistro, in Front Street, Chester-le-Street, is a dream come true for the 57-year-old businesswoman.

Marion decided to fulfil her ambition and open a restaurant where customers can eat everyday food and not worry about the consequences.

She said: "People should be able to eat ordinary food and still lose weight. I set out to prove this with my weight loss company Slimming Unique, and when Paul Brown, who owns Heathlands Gym, suggested I open a bistro at the gym, I jumped at the chance.