SHARON Walker intends to practice what she preaches by relaunching the Quarry Bank branch of Slimming World next month.

The 51-year-old HR manager was initially a member after joining on the advice of her GP when she was politely encouraged to get involved after suffering from back and hip pain.

Sharon admitted: “I was overweight and my blood pressure had gone through the roof. There was also the threat of diabetes.

“Yet after x-rays, there was no underlying cause to the pain. It got to the point where I couldn't even walk properly.

“I was given a referral by my GP, which entitled me to a minimum of 12 months membership. I lost one-and-a-half stone in weight. Then one day, while on holiday, the pain suddenly stopped.”

Sharon has since gone onto shed three and a half stone and said: “There has been such a massive improvement to my health.

“I have far more energy than I used to and I feel so much better for it.

“You don't have to be a perfect weight, you can weigh whatever you feel comfortable with. Having been a member, it helps you to understand how people feel.”

Sharon is now appealing to anyone who believes overweight is affecting their life to take part in the referral scheme which is funded by Dudley Council and provides weight loss support for up to 12 months.

She will relaunch her group on Monday, July 23, at Thorns Primary School where they will meet every Monday at 5pm and 7pm.

But despite becoming a consultant, Sharon still attends meetings simply as a member.

She added: “I go to a different group on a Friday. I really enjoy going because of the encouragement and support that I receive.

“I set out my original goal when I started and I'm just one pound away from achieving it.”