A Romford slimmer who lost more than 9st swapped fitness tips with former model Nell McAndrew when they met at a national slimming competition.

Tony Nash won a place in the finals of Slimming World’s Man of the Year 2012 contest.

He was congratulated on his success by Nell, former I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here star.

Tony, who goes to a group in Collier Row, dropped from 24st 4.5lb to 15st 3.5lb.

He said: “Most men would do anything to lose weight before going to a slimming club, they think it’s all a bit girly.

“But my mates soon changed their minds when they saw how much weight I was losing – and how much food I was eating.”

Nell said: “I’m so impressed by Tony and the hard work and dedication that saw him reach his weight loss goal.

“He looks great and what he’s achieved is incredible – he’s not just an inspiration to the other slimmers in his group but to everyone.”