A Slimming World group in Hornchurch is calling out for new members.

After the previous leader retired, Stella Nowak relaunched the group in July this year.

Stella said: “I want others to gain from the experience I have enjoyed in a warm and friendly group where a member’s weight is purely confidential, with no humiliation.

Stella was inspired to join Slimming World during a recent holiday in Seville when she was impressed by a friend that managed to stay slim despite maintaining a good appetite and enjoying a drink or two who told her about the Slimming World programme.

After joining Stella lost two and a half stone and decided to help and inspire others by launching her own group.

Despite the group being relatively new, it already boasts nearly 68 members and continues to grow through the relentless postering work of Stella and through simple word of mouth.

Stella said: “The programme uses food optimisation which is far too generous to be called a diet, which means you can eat lots of food, and never have to go hungry, but can still lose weight.

“The group provides support and encouragement, with people who are in the same situation as you so you don’t have to struggle on your own.

“We also have a free to go membership, which is for any 11-15 year olds.

“They are entitled to come along with a paying adult or a person responsible for their food for free and are allowed a more flexible plan.”

Recently, one member of the group, Linda, was awarded the “Woman of the Year” title for losing over four stone, which Stella described as a “remarkable achievement.”

People interested in signing up should call Stella Nowak on 07854 323550.