Mother-of-three Mel Maslen used to dread getting asked to parties or family gatherings, but after dropping from a dress size 24 to a 12 she cannot wait for the invitations to arrive.

Mrs Maslen, 43, who lost the excess weight with help of the Slimming World club in Devizes, said: “I feel completely different about myself now.

“I used to hate trying to find something to wear and then feeling bad about how I looked, but now I have so much more confidence. I love going out now.”

Mrs Maslen, who has twin daughters, aged 14, and another daughter, who is 17, was referred to a Slimming World club when she went for a well woman check and asked for advice about her weight.

She found she was eligible for free classes on the NHS and signed up with the club sessions held at the Crown Centre and organised by Kim Heath.

Mrs Maslen was delighted to find out that no foods were banned in the Slimming World regime she had to follow. Even chips and bags of crisps could be incorporated into the meal plans.

The scheme does not involve counting calories, but instead relies on a point system allocated for “sinful” foods.

Slimmers have to restrict themselves to a maximum of 15 sins a day, but can eat large portions of lean meat, fruit and vegetables.

Even pasta, rice and potatoes are allowed on the diet plan.

She said: “I can honestly say I eat more now than I did before, but now instead of skipping breakfast and then picking at stuff throughout the day, I eat proper healthy meals.”

Her cocker spaniel, Billy, is also enjoying the new fitness level his owner has achieved.

Mrs Maslen and her husband, Ray, regularly take Billy for walks. However, as she lost weight the walks have become longer and it is her husband who is now asking her to slow down.

Mrs Maslen has reached her target weight, but still goes to club meetings regularly, on Wednesday evenings, to keep a check on her weight.

Club leader Kim Heath said Mrs Maslen joined the classes in May 2103, after a GP’s referral to the club.

That meant she could attend for 12 weeks for free.

The club leader added: “Mel was a quiet person and to watch her bloom has been amazing.”

Another success for the Devizes Slimming World group has been the progress of fellow member Alana Mitcham.

She has lost 3st 9lbs, despite still eating the cakes she loves to make.