MEMBER numbers have topped over 200 people at a support group for people looking to lose weight in Westbourne.

Barbara Edwards, who runs Slimming World at West Cliff Baptist Church on Poole Road, was celebrating as they launched their fourth group with the help of Westbourne and Westcliff ward councillor Barry Goldbart.

Over the space of 2012, members lost a combined total of 400stone, the same weight, Barbara says, as an Army tank, through their sheer determination to gain a healthier weight and lifestyle.

Barbara said: “The morning group got too much to be run as one meeting, as we’ve had so many people join us, that it was time to start up the next one.”

She added: “The thing with Slimming World is that it works for men, women and even children as well, which we do because of the obesity problem that we face in Britain.

“We don’t count points or calories. Instead, our book lists the ‘free foods’ which you can eat when you like, and the naughty foods which should be eaten less often, rather than not having them at all.”

Barbara has run Slimming World in Westbourne for three years now and she says that over that time she has lost 3.5stone, which spurs her on to keep helping others.

“The biggest loss from one member is nine-and-a-half stone and the lady has still managed to keep it off.

“I can say that I tried everything under the sun and nothing worked until now.”

Alison Yorke-Saville, team manager for Bournemouth and East Dorset, said: “We know from research that 75 per cent of family members of those who come to Slimming World meetings will lose weight themselves as a direct result of their relation eating more healthily.

“It is fantastic what Barbara has done with her groups and it’s a great achievement for everyone involved.”

Cllr Barry Goldbart said: “I believe that it is very important for people to look after themselves and keep in the best shape that they can. To lose 400 stone in a year is an enormous achievement to have come out of the area.

“I want to congratulate them on the extra class, and for helping people in the Westbourne and Westcliff area, as I know that the changes people make will help them for life.”

* For more information on Slimming World in Westbourne, contact Barbara, on 07519 106333.