As Slimming World Stranocum group celebrates their first anniversary, local mum of two, Amanda Dobbin is truly jumping for joy as she celebrates an amazing weight loss of FOUR stone 5lbs. Dedicated mother of two recalls just how much her weight had stopped her getting on with everyday life, such as playing with her boys and other daily tasks. “I had so little energy I felt very down and depressed which left me struggling to get out of bed in the morning, now I’ve loads of energy and I’m only ever tired at bedtime” she marvels. Amanda tried cutting back over the years herself to try to lose weight, but with no success. Then one really wet Sunday afternoon she noticed Jayne the consultant putting a leaflet through her door to advertise the opening of the Stranocum group. She committed that day on her doorstep to joining and has never looked back. Amanda recalls feeling really nervous and embarrassed the first night going to group, but the warm friendly atmosphere put her at ease straight away as everyone was there with the same goal. Amanda couldn’t believe just how easy the plan was. “I love Slimming World, as the plan is really straight forward, I don’t have to weigh my potatoes or meat, I never feel hungry, and I can still enjoy my treats!” Amanda is a full time mum but has managed to incorporate some exercise into her day as well. She laughs “I have started to do some running which before now would have been impossible for me”. Amanda is also a valued part of the Social Team in group, where she welcomes new members each week and is a great support to those existing members too, she is fondly known as “Queen of soups” by Jayne and the group as she makes some gorgeous dishes and stews for the taster nights they have in group throughout the year. “ I love to try new things and it’s great because my boys eat some of the meals too,” she said. “So the whole family can benefit from a healthier lifestyle because of me.” Amanda thanks Slimming world for coming into her life, she no longer suffers from the pain of inflammation in her joints since losing weight, and is so excited that she is off her medication. Amanda would urge anyone who is unhappy with their weight to open their door to something new as she did one Sunday afternoon and contact Jayne today on 077206 77709. Jayne also has a Garvagh Group on a Wednesday at 5.30 and 7.30pm at the Jim Watt Sports Centre, Garvagh.