A SUPER slimmer from Kidderminster has been named a group’s ‘man of the year’ after shedding stones throughout the year.

Mark Yapp lost an impressive 5st 2lbs in eight months to smash his own target and be crowned St chads Slimming World Group’s top male of 2018.

The 36-year-old father-of-one also dispelled his own myth that slimming clubs were only aimed at women with a focus on ‘diet food’ and discussing emotions.

Instead, he was given practical support and followed Slimming World’s ‘food optimising eating plan’ to successfully reduce his weight.

Since shedding the pounds, he has discovered he has more energy and burns this off by running and cycling.

Mr Yapp, a production manager at Wienerberger in Hartlebury, said: “It was nerve-wracking walking through those doors for the first time but I wasn’t the only man there and everyone was so supportive.

“Now I look forward to the sessions. There is lots of banter and laughter and I get some really good ideas too, from new recipe suggestions to ideas to boost my activity levels.”

Tash Allmont, who runs the Slimming World group added: “He has done brilliantly and we’re all amazed by his transformation. He’s a real inspiration to the group.

“We know that many men assume slimming clubs won’t be right for them, but Mark shows that once they come through the doors they do brilliantly.

“Like Mark I would advise anyone who would like to lose weight to find the courage to take that first step.”

The Slimming World group is held every Monday at Offmore Primary SChool at 5.30 & 7.30pm and Thursday 7pm. Anyone interested in joining the group can pop along or for more information they can call Tash on 07445 395418.