It proved an emotional and inspirational day for local slimmers as they joined in Wigan’s Race for Life at Haigh Woodland Park

What an emotional and inspiring day it was at Race for Life, as members from Daisy Hill and Hindley Green Slimming World came together to support Cancer Research UK and honour loved ones sadly lost to cancer, alongside two much-loved Slimming World members currently facing their own cancer journey.

The event was filled with emotion, determination and an incredible sense of togetherness, as members proved just how far they’ve come — not only in their weight loss journeys, but in confidence, fitness and belief in themselves.

Jess, who has achieved a tremendous seven and a half stones in weight loss, admitted she never imagined she would take part in such an event.

Consultant Catherine Cleary running to support two of her members and in memory of Margaret Miles Bramwell, Slimming Worlds founder, who sadly lost her battle with cancer last year | Catherine Cleary

placeholder image — Consultant Catherine Cleary running to support two of her members and in memory of Margaret Miles Bramwell, Slimming Worlds founder, who sadly lost her battle with cancer last year | Catherine Cleary

“Never would I have believed I could do this until Cath spoke about it in group,” she said. “The support of other members made me feel stronger and believe in myself. I’m not going to lie, I struggled especially uphill coming back, but I’m absolutely over the moon to have taken part.”

Jill, who has lost an incredible five stones, described the event as a personal triumph after once struggling to walk even a short distance.

“Before losing weight, I couldn’t even walk 10 yards,” she explained. “After taking part last year, my goal this time was not to finish last. I was determined to finish and when I saw all my friends cheering me on at the end, I’m so proud.”

Members Tara, Georgia and Linda, who together have lost a fantastic eight stones, pushed themselves even further by completing the Couch to 5K programme in preparation for the event.

Their healthier lifestyle journey has also seen them regularly taking part in Parkruns, while Linda proudly completed a 10K race earlier this year.

A Slimming World spokesperson said: “The inspiring achievements highlight how Slimming World is about far more than weight loss.

“It’s about building confidence, improving health and embracing a more active lifestyle with the encouragement and support of others walking the same path.

Consultant Cath, who runs award-winning Slimming World sessions in Daisy Hill on Thursdays and Hindley Green on Wednesdays, said the day was one she will never forget.

“What an emotional day. I’m honestly so proud of each one of my members for encouraging each other and supporting each other to finish, with Angela, Mary and Diane being everyone’s cheerleaders as well as completing their own goals.

“It was a fabulous event once again.”

Fund-raising is still ongoing, with members continuing to collect donations for Cancer Research UK.

For more information about joining one of Cath’s eight weekly Slimming World sessions and starting your own journey, message or call her on 0750 661 4719