A 40-year-old mother of three from Melksham has lost more than three stone during lockdown.

Stacy Richman piled on the pounds after giving birth to baby boy Freddie on December 17 2019.

She said: "He was premature and we had to spend a lot of time in hospital so visitors poured in bringing gifts for baby and food for me."

"Mince pies, chocolate, crisps anything that was easy to snack on while I sat by his bedside, the weight started to pile on even more."

"Once Freddie was discharged and things became easier I decided the weight needed to go.

"Deep down I’d been unhappy with my weight for years but would always find an excuse not to do anything about it."

Mrs Richman, of College Row, decided something had to be done and joined the Slimming World group in Melksham.

Since February 14 last year, she has lost more than 30lb and is now down to 10st 7lb.

She added: "Within four weeks I had lost over half a stone, then lockdown happened.

"I panicked that not being able to go to group would stop the weight loss, but I was wrong.

"My consultant Carmen Middleditch held weekly Zoom meetings so the group was still going ahead virtually, ideas would be shared and stories told.

"The weight was still dropping off, and I pushed myself to start walking more and instead of a couple of times a week I now walk every day and have also started running three times a week using the couchto5k app.

"Even though it was difficult during lockdown I decided that seeing a loss on the scales every week was more fulfilling than a chocolate bar so that’s what kept me motivated.

"I reached my target on October 9 and have stayed on target ever since.

"Slimming World has been a lifestyle change and definitely a change for the better. For anyone thinking about it, go for it."

Mrs Middleditch said: “Stacy is a wonderful inspiration to other members as she has transformed her life through making new lifestyle choices that have now become intrinsic to her everyday life, including being active.”