A LOCAL couple have improved their health massively since joining their local Slimming World group in Lochore.

Derek and Michele Davidson have been enjoying the journey together, with Derek joining shortly after Michele.

Michele said: "My self esteem had hit rock bottom. I got more and more depressed every time I put clothes on that no longer fitted", while Derek added: "I was wheezing and out of breath, and couldn't bend down to tie my own laces. I struggled to find 4XL clothes to fit. I was becoming depressed and lazy".

Since joining Nicola's group, the couple have lost almost seven stones between them. Derek said: "I always thought Slimming World was for women but I soon realised that this is not the case, plenty of men are part of the group and losing weight brilliantly.

"I love food optimising, so many choices. I've always loved fruit and veg but they weren't my go to food like they are now."

Said Michele: "I love fajitas, we can still have them!"

Derek also loves the huge selection of foods to choose from: "We love to cook Mexican and always cook from fresh. We love experimenting in the kitchen with new ideas".

The couple are finding the biggest challenge not turning to junk food for comfort or when bored but say 'eating healthy has become part of our daily life'

They are also a key part of the group, inspiring others with their wonderful recipes and stories of Body Magic - Slimming World's unique stage-by-stage activity programme which members can choose to do.

Despite doing no exercise before joining the group, the pair are now enjoying an active lifestyle. They have just completed their first organised 5K event and have made activity part of their daily lives.

The couple said: "We jog three miles every second night and every other night we cycle between five and 10 miles".

Health has vastly improved, with Michele's knee problems becoming much less and Derek's plantar fasciitis (problems with his feet) eliminated. He is now able to breath easily and 'looks forward to their daily exercise, come rain, hail or snow'.

"I am proud to be fitting into clothes that I haven't been able to wear for the last 10 years," said Derek.

"I am proud to be part of our Slimming World group and to be able to share thoughts, ideas and support to other members in the hope of helping them reach their goals. I love to encourage others to try to change their lives. I wish I had discovered Slimming World a long time ago".

Nicola's Slimming World groups are held in Lochore Miners Institute on Thursdays at 3.30, 5.30 or 7.30pm and Fridays at 9.30 or 11.30am.