Walthamstow's Simon Dale is almost unrecognisable after 8st weight loss

While most people would hate being called the ‘greatest loser’, it is music to the ears of this man.

That’s because Simon Dale turned his life around after losing eight stone to take the ‘greatest loser’ title at Walthamstow Academy Slimming World group.

Mr Dale said he feels fabulous after the weight loss and has no issue being called the ‘greatest loser’ “when it feels this good”.

Before and after

Losing the most weight in the group for 2017, he added: “I feel like a new man since losing weight.

“In fact, I look so different that people who I haven’t seen for a while often can’t believe I’m the same person.

“For me though it’s the change on the inside that’s been the greatest, I’m happier, healthier and much more confident now."

Before joining the group in 2015, he said he hated having his picture taken, admitting his weight impacted on many aspects of his life.

He added: “From struggling to find clothes I'd like to fit to not being able to do simple everyday tasks without feeling tired and out of breath."

His weight was also putting a huge strain on his health, having a BMI over 30 made him more likely to suffer from coronary heart disease, arthritis, diabetes and cancer.

The group has helped him discover new friends, recipe tips, and kept him on the straight and narrow towards his weight loss goals.

Mr Dale is active most days, regularly swimming and working out at the gym.

He said by making small changes like cooking with low calorie oil sprays instead of butter he has seen the weight fall off.

Dawn Sonnino, who runs the slimming group, said: "The changes we’ve seen in Simon are incredible. I hope his success will inspire other people in Walthamstow who’d like to lose weight to take action."

The group meets every Wednesday and Thursday at 5.30pm or 7.30pm at Walthamstow Academy, in Billet Road, Walthamstow.

For further information contact Dawn on 07966 302277 or dawnsonnino@yahoo.co.uk.