Amanda Burton lost an impressive 7st 5lbs and won a place at Slimming World’s Woman of the Year competition

Amanda Burton lost an impressive 7st 5lbs and won a place at Slimming World’s Woman of the Year competition.

The 43-year-old, who is a member of the Tilehurst group, met Jamie Lomas after triumphing in regional heats.

She said: “Before I found Slimming World, everything just felt like such a struggle.

"Simple tasks would become massive chores because I would get out of breath so easily and having so much weight to lose just felt like a huge battle.

"It was as though my eyes were completely opened and I found a new way of eating that easily fit around my life."

Ms Burton went on an incredible weightloss journey, dropping from just over 18st to 10st 9.5lbs.

She added: “The changes I have made were so simple; little things like switching white bread for wholemeal and using low-calorie cooking spray instead of lots of oil.

"Everyone is full of ideas and advice and their support really helped me to believe in myself and my ability to make a change. I honestly don’t think I could have done it without them.

“Losing weight has encouraged me to think about how active I am too, so I have taken up yoga and running. Slimming World has completely changed my life.”

She was voted by her fellow members to be their representative for the Woman of the Year competition.

The Hollyoaks actor commented on her transformation and said it was 'a reminder that you can do anything you want if you set your mind to it.'

Linda Haines, who runs the Tilehurst group, said: “Amanda is a wonderful asset to our group.

"The change on the outside is plain to see, yet she has changed so much on the inside, too. These days, she is ready to take on whatever challenges life throws at her and we couldn’t be prouder of her.

“If Amanda has inspired anyone, I would love them to join our group at the Berkshire Maestros Centre at Prospect School, or call me on 07935895148.”