A SLIMMING World consultant is celebrating a milestone.

Pauline Howard has notched-up 25 years with the organisation.

She founded the Cross Hills group in 1994 and still runs it every Monday, at 5pm and 7pm, at St Peter’s Church.

Pauline has also helped at other Slimming World classes across Craven and the Aire Valley.

And she is well known in the wider community.

She was among the first female porters to be employed at Airedale Hospital, although she’s now retired from that post.

Pauline said: “I absolutely love my role as a Slimming World consultant – helping members to lose weight, gain confidence and deal with health issues such as diabetes. And we have welcomed Slimming World babies!

“It is an amazing role and I look forward to many further years helping more members achieve their dream weight.

“Mondays have always been my favourite night, when I see my Cross Hills members.

“Over the years I have witnessed so many changes, as Slimming World has gone from strength to strength.

“We’ve moved from paper to computer-based records, seen the launch of the Slimming World magazine and the development of ‘body magic’, which encourages more activity alongside food optimising.

“I can’t believe it’s been 25 years already!”

Tribute is paid by Carla Weatherill, Slimming World’s team developer for Keighley, Skipton and Settle.

“Pauline is an absolute inspiration,” she said.

“Her love for and belief in Slimming World’s food optimising never wavers, and nor does her commitment to help members achieve their dream weight.

“We are so proud of Pauline’s dedication to her members, our team and the organisation.”

Late last year, Pauline – and Carla – were among several Slimming World consultants from the area who attended a prestigious awards ceremony.

They travelled to Birmingham International Convention Centre for the annual Woman of the Year Awards.

The ceremony was hosted by TV personality Rylan Clark-Neal and Slimming World’s founder and chairman, Margaret Miles-Branwell.

Any current or past members interested in becoming a consultant should contact Carla on 07881 953118.