Two women have been hailed as inspirations after losing more than 11 stone between them.

Karen Nathan, leader of the Slimming World group held at St Michael’s Church, in Brook Road, contacted the Borehamwood Times to celebrate the success of two of her members.

She said the two “fantastic” ladies had been a big inspiration for the group after reaching their target weights, and wanted the pair to be recognised for their hard work and determination.

Debbie Turton, of Barton Way, joined the group in January last year and has since lost six stone – as well as encouraging her husband, daughter and sister-in-law to join.

She said: “It’s nice to be able to go out clothes shopping and pick whatever I like. It’s given me so much more confidence.

“Me and my family have learned a lot from this experience, and we’ve become a lot more food conscious. Now we have stopped living on convenience food and have started making real food from scratch.”

Mandy Dunk, of Digswell Close, joined the group in February after being referred by her doctor on the "Slimming on Referral" campaign, which enables you to join for free and receive 12 weeks of paid for sessions.

She has now reached her target after losing five and a half stone, and attended the group's meeting in a dress for the first time at the weekend.

She said: “I’ve always been confident but it’s really made a difference. It’s not a real diet, but a change in the way you view food.”

Her 23-year-old son, who enjoys going to the gym, has been a big help to her and kept her on track. She added: “He’s good at disciplining me. I can be strict on myself but I have people that have supported me throughout this. Debbie has been really brilliant, too.”

Both women will continue to visit the group each week for support, and hope to inspire and encourage more people to make a change in their lives.

Mrs Nathan said she was very proud of both women and added: “People need to see that this is achievable, and these two are a great inspiration for the group.”