A TEENAGER who was overweight from the age of ten and hit size 20 a year ago is today looking forward to a brighter future after losing nearly four stone.

A TEENAGER who was overweight from the age of ten and hit size 20 a year ago is today looking forward to a brighter future after losing nearly four stone.

April King said her confidence plummeted after suffering years of bullying at the hands of fellow pupils over her weight, which at one point reached 15-and-a-half stone.

The 16-year-old's problems were compounded when she missed a whole school year after developing agoraphobia following the death of her aunt.

But today, April is back at school - and now boasting a size ten figure after determinedly shedding the pounds.

April, who attends Slimming World in Ipswich's Chevallier Street, has been crowned Miss Slinky and the group's Greatest Loser after her weight loss.

The student, who lives in Heather Avenue, Ipswich, had been overweight since the age of ten.

However since joining the slimming club, she is now eager to restart her education and wants to train to become a teacher.

April said: “I have been overweight since the age of ten, and suffered bullying at school due to my size.

“The final straw for me was when I hit a size 20. I wanted to do something about my weight, but after losing my aunt I developed agoraphobia and didn't leave the house.

“I was referred to a new school and as my confidence increased I knew I could do something about my weight. A friend told me about Slimming World, and while I was frightened at the thought of walking into room full of people, everyone has been so lovely and supportive.

“I was voted the group's Miss Slinky and the group's Greatest Loser, and after losing almost four stone my confidence has soared.”

April, who claims her success is partly due to great support from her group and consultant Wendy, added: “I now go swimming and to the gym, and having gone back to school I want to continue with my education and train to be a teacher.”

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