Stephen McPartland dropped by for a weigh-in with one of the Poplars Slimming World groups who meet weekly at Poplars community hall to hear first hand the positive impact on local people's lives.
Stephen McPartland said, "The group made me feel very welcome and I can see how enjoyable being a member can be. It was very different to what I imagined with support and information along with a lot of fun. Many people are even referred through the NHS Herts referral scheme to help them tackle the challenge of weight loss.
"The community spirit is fantastic and I am proud that the difference being made in Stevenage is recognised with one of the groups nominated for the national Group of the Year. It is One of only 5 from 9,000 across the UK and another fantastic example of our local community spirit."
Tracy Copping, Slimming World Consultant, who runs the Timebridge and Poplars groups, said, "I truly believe I have the best job in the world. I am passionate about helping people to change their lives by losing weight and seeing them succeed is the most important thing to me, but being nominated for Group of the Year, from 9,000 groups in UK is a wonderful bonus.
"I am proud to see Stevenage on the map in such a positive way! I have worked really hard this year to make sure that members who join my group get the highest level of service and the weight loss success they deserve.
"There are 300 plus members in the Timebridge and Poplars groups, both accredited with the coveted 'Gold' last month. They are the ones who make it the success it is, with their fabulous energy, the wonderful support they give each other every week."
Stephen McPartland will be back after the General Election campaign for another weigh-in to see if there is any impact on his weight.
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