Hastings duo shed 10 stone – no fads, just everyday food!

Gill and Carol are shining examples of what can be achieved with the right support. Their journeys are not just inspiring—they are proof that lasting change is possible for anyone!

Across the UK, weight loss has never been more important—not just for how we look, but for our health and how we live.

Gill and Carol love attending their weekly Slimming World group and have lost over 10 stone between them. placeholder image
Gill and Carol love attending their weekly Slimming World group and have lost over 10 stone between them. | Amanda Ray

Latest figures show that around 30% of adults in England are living with obesity, and as many as 66% are overweight or obese . That means nearly two-thirds of adults are above a healthy weight, increasing the risk of serious conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even some cancers.

But behind those statistics are real people! Two local women are proving that change is absolutely possible with the help of their Slimming World group.

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At Amanda Ray’s Slimming World groups in Hastings and Bexhill, members aren’t just losing weight—they’re transforming their lives! Gill and Carol from the Blacklands 8am group in Hastings have lost over 10 stone between them!

Gill’s story is nothing short of remarkable. From her very first week where she lost an incredible 4lbs and committed to her journey, within a year she had lost 6 stone, and today she is over 8 stone 4½lbs lighter. Her achievement is extraordinary, but what truly sets Gill apart is her attitude.

She comes to group every single week, not just for her own success, but for the fun, friendship, and motivation. She’s always ready to lift others up by sharing recipes, ideas, and practical tips that help fellow members stay on track. Her favourite Mexican chicken lasagna is proof that healthy eating doesn’t mean giving up the foods you love.

And importantly, Gill hasn’t put her life on hold, she still enjoys socialising, going to musicals and heading off on holiday. Her journey shows that sustainable weight loss fits into real life, rather than restricting it.

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Gill says “It feels a bit surreal to be honest. I find it hard to remember how it felt to be 8 stone heavier, but I never intend to go back there! Thank you so much to Amanda for all her support, and for running such an amazing group!”

Carol’s journey is equally powerful. A target member and proud diamond award achiever, she lost 2 stone and reached her goal in June 2023 and has successfully maintained it ever since.

Carol has worked hard to reshape her habits, focusing on the foods she enjoys and building a balanced, realistic approach to eating. She embraces Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan and, like Gill, is a familiar face staying to group every week. Her consistency is inspiring, proving that long-term weight loss success comes from creating habits that last. And that’s exactly what makes Slimming World different.

At Amanda Ray’s groups, the focus isn’t just on what you eat—it’s on how you think, your habits and your behaviours. Members are supported to understand their triggers, build healthier routines, and develop a positive relationship with food. This behaviour-change approach is key. Research shows that adopting healthier lifestyles, like improving diet and increasing activity can significantly reduce the risk of serious diseases linked to obesity .

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Rather than quick fixes, members learn skills they can use for life. Weekly groups provide a supportive, non-judgemental environment where members share experiences, celebrate success, and stay motivated together. It’s this powerful combination of community, accountability and mindset change that helps people not only lose weight—but keep it off.

Gill and Carol are shining examples of what can be achieved with the right support. Their journeys are not just inspiring—they are proof that lasting change is possible for anyone!

If you’re ready to take that first step, Amanda invites you to come along and see what Slimming World is all about. Whether you want to lose a few pounds or make a life-changing transformation, you’ll find a warm welcome waiting.

Join Amanda’s Slimming World groups in Bexhill and Hastings, East Sussex, and start your own journey today.

For more information, call Amanda on 07795169325 or visit the Slimming World website: www.slimmingworld.co.uk to find your nearest group.

You can also find out more about Amanda’s Slimming World groups on Facebook: Slimming World with Amanda Ray Hastings and Bexhill.

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