A YOUNG man who has lost almost seven stone in a year has urged other men not to ignore their weight problems.

Ed Walker, aged 24, has shed the weight since joining the Holt Heath Slimming World group in May last year.

The Martley resident said: “Joining Slimming World has been one of the best things I’ve ever done.

“Before, I thought slimming groups were just for women and not my thing at all – but after struggling with everyday things, I decided I had nothing to lose by giving it a try.

“We have a good laugh as well as sharing challenges, our plans for overcoming them, ideas for getting fit and active and plenty of recipes.

“Just by making a few small changes to the way my favourite meals are cooked, I can ensure they’re still filling and full of flavour, and also good for my waistline.”

The leader of the group has called on obese men to not be shy about dealing with the problem.

Sarah Eskdale, who runs the Slimming World group in Holt Heath, said: “Weight problems are common among both men and women, but figures show that men typically keep weight worries to themselves for as long as six years.

“The good news, though, is that more and more men are becoming open to the idea of getting support and there are now more than 60,000 men using Slimming World groups around the country.

“With our generous Food Optimising eating plan it means it’s possible to satisfy even the biggest of appetites and, whether it’s steak and home-baked chips, a Sunday Roast or a spicy curry, you can still enjoy all of your favourite foods.

“As they lose weight and gain confidence, they are supported and rewarded to get more active, if they want to,” Ms Eskdale said

Slimming World at Holt Heath is open to new members and the group meets every Wednesday at 7pm or Thursday at 9.30am at Holt Heath Village Hall.