He’s Horncastle’s Man of the Year

John has been named Horncastle’s Man of the Year 2020 in the first ever virtual competition Slimming World has held in its 50-year history.

He joined his group in February and has proved the group can work for men as well as women.

Members would usually vote for their group’s winner at a special group meeting but nominations - and celebrations - were held online as part of the organisation’s new temporary virtual service.

John will now represent Horncastle in the national finals where the winner will receive £4,000.

Like many men, John thought slimming clubs were aimed at women and assumed the focus would be on ‘diet’ food.

However, he decided to give it a try after being advised by his doctor that losing weight could potentially reverse his diabetes and bring down his cholesterol.

He joined with his wife so they could support each other.

He admits he was pleasantly surprised to find that the support provided by the group was practical and encouraging.

He followed an eating plan that enabled him to enjoy generous portions of healthy food like lean meat, pasta, rice, eggs, potatoes, fruit and veg - so he didn’t have to go hungry.

He said: “Deep down, I’d been unhappy with my weight for some time.

“When I did admit to myself that I wanted to lose weight, I still didn’t want to ask for help.

“It was nerve-wracking walking through those doors for the first time but being given such a warm welcome, by Karen (the consultant) and finding that everyone was so supportive was a big help.”

John says the support and encouragement he has continued to receive during lockdown has helped him stay on track with his weight loss.

He added: “I was sad to hear my group had been suspended as I was worried about missing my routine and nervous about holding on to the changes I’d made.

“I really enjoy attending my virtual group, it’s full of that same group spirit and laughter, and all the usual advice - only now from the comfort of my sofa.

“It’s been a real lifeline and I can honestly say I feel like a different man. I feel so much fitter and healthier and my blood sugars are very close to being completely under control which was my main aim.”

Karen Fereday, who runs the Horncastle group, says she’s incredibly proud of John, saying: “He has done brilliantly and we’re all in awe of his transformation.

The Horncastle virtual Slimming World group is held every Tuesday at 9.30am & 11.30am or Thursday at 6pm & 8pm. Anyone interested can call Karen on 07900 062817.