Sami Kirk, who lives in Sidmouth, joined Slimming World in February 2021, in the height of the second lockdown, and during this time lost an 'amazing' two stone.

Sami said that the lockdown had really made her evaluate her life and a healthier life was on the top of her list. For Sami, Slimming World was the answer to address that. Sami said: "What I love about Slimming World is the fact that it isn't a diet. It is a way of learning to live and eat healthily."

Sami had tried to lose weight before and had not found a plan or diet that worked for her. With Slimming World Sami loved knowing that no food was banned, creating that freedom from guilt. Sami began to enjoy planning meals around her lifestyle and created delicious meals for the family to enjoy. Sami's favourite Slimming World meal is salmon with prawns and samphire - she describes it as a regular 'free food in our house'.

Sami said: "Since losing the weight so far I am happier, healthier and fitter."

Sami has also got involved with the Slimming World Body Magic programme.

Body Magic is activity exercise - 'anything that gets your heartbeat going a little bit faster' - that helps with inch loss and toning. Once members reach their target weight, it helps them maintain it. Slimming World supports its members with this. Some members join already doing activity, but some members start it further down their journey at a time that is right for them.

Sami enlisted her daughter as her 'walking buddy' in her fitness programme, and has gone from doing next to no exercise to achieving her Gold Body Magic Award.

For anyone thinking about joining Slimming World Sami said: "Do it! Life is all about making choices and I have made one of my better choices by joining Slimming World."

If you would like to find out more about joining a Slimming World group please contact Nicola, who runs the Sidmouth Wednesday morning group, on 07713 637650, or Harriet, who runs the Sidmouth Thursday afternoon/evening group, on 07828 299391.