Retired farm vet Bob Moore knew something had to change.

He was suffering with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and the day to day struggles of working on the family farm – all linked to being overweight.

So, in August 2019, the 78-year-old, from Corscombe, decided to join his local Slimming World group.

Stepping on the scales after the first week, Bob couldn't believe he'd lost a 4lb. Bob said: "I didn't think I'd be able to eat so much food including Sunday Roasts, pasta bakes and even my favourite cheese and still lose weight!"

Bob has now lost nine stone and is well on the way to achieving his target award.

Bob attends his Slimming World group in Dorchester each week and says the motivation, sharing ideas, and encouragement from his consultant Lisa Harvey and the other members of his group has without doubt been the key to successfully losing weight.

Since losing weight, Bob has stopped taking his insulin injections and is pre-diabetic, his blood pressure is now normal, and he has more energy and feels fitter than ever before.

Bob added: "Being of a certain age and seeing the impact of Covid-19, especially on overweight people, I am so happy to have turned my life around and would urge others to do the same."

Bob's inspirational story backs up research showing that people with type 2 diabetes can improve their diabetes control by making healthy lifestyle changes and losing weight following Slimming World's programme.

The study polled Slimming World members with type 2 diabetes. Of those who had been Slimming World members for six months or more and lost at least 10 per cent of their body weight, more than half (54 per cent) said they believed they had reversed their condition.

Some 77 per cent saw improvements in their blood glucose management and 60 per cent of people were able to reduce or stop taking medication.

An incredible 84 per cent reported an improved quality of life and 75 per cent of members with type 2 diabetes said they found it easy to fit dietary recommendations from their healthcare team into Slimming World's Food Optimising eating plan.

The findings of the study are especially important as NHS research reports that people with diabetes face significantly higher risks after contracting coronavirus.

For more information, visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk to find your nearest group. If you're interested in joining Lisa's group call 07962075882