Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Pamela is woman of the year
Slimmer scoops group prize
IAN BUNTING
Pamela McKay is “overjoyed” to be crowned Townhead Slimming World’s woman of the year.
The Coatbridge resident achieved the well-earned accolade by losing 4st 4lbs – going from more than 16st to just over 12st in a year.
Pamela’s success will see her represent her group at the regional Slimming World woman of the year competition, which aims to find “the UK and Ireland’s most inspiring female slimmer”.
The award also celebrates the achievements of thousands of women up and down the country who have made long-term healthy lifestyle changes.
Pamela said: “When I first joined group I never dreamt that I would be in the position I am now.
“Losing weight has made such a big difference to my life; my health has improved, I have more energy, I’m happier and I feel more comfortable in my own skin.”
Pamela joined Slimming World in April 2018 after feeling unhappy about her size.
She said: “I tried a number of different ways to lose weight but they usually left me feeling hungry or miserable – or both, in fact. “With Slimming World it’s completely different. “I’m a vegetarian and I manage to utilise the Slimming World recipes into vegetarian options; I just prepare and cook them differently now – and they taste so much better.
“I never have to miss out and don’t have to get hung up on weighing and measuring everything I eat.
“I’ve picked up so many tips and healthy recipes from the other members at my Slimming World group too.”
Pamela added: “I know it can feel like a big step joining Slimming World because you don’t know what to expect; but, right from the first moment I walked into my group, I was made to feel at ease and the support I’ve received has been amazing.
“I feel like a different woman to the one who walked into Slimming World 16 months ago and winning woman of the year is a real honour because there are so many amazing women in our group.
“I remember feeling like I would never be happy in my own skin again, but I’ve realised that when people believe in you – and you believe in yourself – you can do anything you set your mind to.
“I really hope my weight loss can inspire other people to get started on their own journey and know that there’s a whole group of people waiting to support them every step of the way – especially at the Townhead group.
“My goal now is to hit my target and stay there for life, which I know I can do.”
Stephen Martin, who runs the Townhead group, said: “I’m so proud of Pamela; she’s a fantastic ambassador for Slimming World and what she’s achieved is nothing short of incredible.
“She’s a huge inspiration to everyone in our group and I hope she inspires other women – and men – in Coatbridge to change their lives in the same way.”
The national Slimming World woman of the year will be announced in November and the winner will take home a £4000 cash prize.
Stephen’s Slimming World group is held every Monday at 5.30pm and Saturday at 8.30am at Townhead parish church, while he also hosts a group on Wednesdays at 6.30pm at Glenboig Masonic hall; to join, or find out more, call Stephen on 07847 332745.