TWO Slimming World Women of the Year have spoken of how their lives have been transformed.

Between them, Charlene Young and Laura Marshall have so far shed more than fourteen-and-a-half stones.

"When I started out I never dreamed I'd be able to achieve all that I have," said Charlene, who has lost over five stones.

"Losing the weight has made such a big difference to me.

"I have more energy and I'm much happier now – I definitely feel more comfortable in my own skin."

The Oakworth group member said winning the Woman of the Year title was "a real honour".

She added: "I remember feeling like there was no hope when it came to my weight, 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."

Fellow member Laura has to date shed a whopping 9st 9lb.

"I started to put on weight after having my children," she said.

"I tried lots of different diets but they usually left me feeling hungry or miserable – or both.

"With Slimming World I never have to miss out and I don't have to get hung up on weighing and measuring everything I eat.

"My family and friends are all amazed by how much I can eat and still lose weight!

"I still eat many of the same meals that I did before I started losing weight, but now I just prepare and cook them differently."

Andrea Astin, who runs the Oakworth and Haworth groups, said she was proud of every Woman of the Year winner.

"They are all fantastic ambassadors for Slimming World and what they have achieved is nothing short of incredible," she added.

"They're an inspiration to everyone in our groups and I hope they also inspire other women – and men – in Keighley to change their lives in the same way."

The Oakworth group meets at Holden Hall at 5pm and 7pm on Wednesdays and the Haworth group meetings are at West Lane Baptist Church at 5pm and 7pm on Thursdays.

Call 01535 642319 for more details.