A FORMER Keighley Weight Watchers coach has spoken of how a huge setback during the pandemic led to a new opportunity.

Denise Walker was devastated when she had to take redundancy from her “dream job” with the organisation eight months ago.

But after meeting-up for regular walks with ex-colleague Adele Wilkin, the pair decided to create their own weight-loss brand – and they haven’t looked back!

The Weigh Better Together venture is proving a massive success, with 13 classes opening in just two months.

“The Covid pandemic has meant so many changes to so many people’s lives ­– including my own,” said Denise.

“It was a huge blow when I was forced to take redundancy from my ‘dream job’.

“I believed it was the job I was ‘meant’ to do and one which I thought, at the grand old age of 57, would see me through to retirement!

“Eight months down the line though I have managed to turn redundancy into an opportunity.

“Out of work and applying for jobs, I kept getting messages from my Facebook friends asking if I could set-up my own weight loss support groups.

“Adele also had many requests to do the same. We walked and talked, I did more training in nutrition and eating psychology to complement my 17 years’ training with WW and with a total of 27 years combined experience and knowledge – and a passion for helping people to lose weight and feel great – we created our very own brand.”

Denise says members are offered one-to-one coaching at the scales and motivational talks.

“It’s also an opportunity for members to get together with like-minded people and have a cuppa and a chat – something we have missed so much during lockdown,” she adds.

“We’re loving it, but more importantly so are our members!

“So far they have lost an incredible 230 stones – and we have raised over £200 for charities Marie Curie, Manorlands and AWARE through our tea and coffee funds.

“If there’s one thing we have learned from this pandemic, it’s that losing weight has never been more important. And it’s so much easier when you have support and accountability.

“Adele and I are so grateful to everyone for their support. We would love to say a huge ‘thank you’ to each and every one of our members!”

For more details, visit facebook.com/weighbettertogether.