An Alva slimmer, who transformed her world by losing four stone, is shaping a whole new career by helping other people change their diets and lives for the better.

Donna Usher joined her local Slimming World group in April 2013 and loved her healthy eating plan so much she decided to train as a Slimming World consultant. She opened her own group in Alva in January 2014 and has been so successful that she is delighted to start a morning group in the Wee County.

She said: “Obesity is becoming such a huge issue across the UK. When I first joined Slimming World as a member, I never dreamed that I would end up helping other people to lose weight, but now it’s a privilege for me to be able to pass on the experience, insight and understanding that helped me, so that I can give my members the support they need to reach their chosen targets.

“Like a lot of slimmers, I had tried to lose weight so many times before by following numerous diets but they were never sustainable because I’d always get tired of restricting what I ate. I thought I was destined to struggle with my weight for the rest of my life, but when I came to Slimming World it was different.

“I never felt like I was on a diet. The eating plan encourages you to eat lots of filling foods like pasta, rice, potatoes and lean meat and fish, you are never hungry and no foods are banned so there’s no deprivation. I couldn’t believe I’d found a way to lose weight without starving myself.

“Slimming World isn’t just about changing what you eat. It’s all about getting the support to choose a healthier lifestyle like finding ways to become more active even if you’re not very mobile or don’t like exercise.

“My weight loss has completely changed my life. On top of that, I’ve got a new career. It’s well-paid and the hours fit around my family, but best of all I’m doing something that I’m passionate about.

“As a slimmer myself I know how hard it can be and I couldn’t have lost four stone without the help and support of my consultant and my group. Sharing recipes and other ideas, and overcoming disappointments as well as celebrating success was all part of the journey, so there’ll be lots of support, encouragement and fun at my Slimming World group.” Her new morning group will be held at Alva’s Parklands Centre, 192 West Stirling Street, next to the Cochrane Park every Thursday at 9.30am from 3 September. She also has an evening group with two sessions in the evening at 5.30pm and 7.30pm on the same day at the same place.

To join, or for more information, head along on Thursday 3 September or call her on 07967 540 280. Visit slimmingworld.com or call 0844 897 8000.