SLIMLINE Helen Downie is able to see the lighter side of life today after shedding more than five stone in little more than a year. The Suffolk woman's dress size plummeted from a size 20 to a ten or 12 after cutting out snacking, eating a more balanced diet and taking up exercise.

SLIMLINE Helen Downie is able to see the lighter side of life today after shedding more than five stone in little more than a year.

The Suffolk woman's dress size plummeted from a size 20 to a ten or 12 after cutting out snacking, eating a more balanced diet and taking up exercise.

Helen, a mum-of-three, said: “When you refuse an offer to go out for a birthday meal because nothing fits you, it's enough to start you off on a downward spiral.

“I tried convincing myself that they don't make clothes the same nowadays, but my only option was to buy bigger clothes or lose weight.

“My friend said 'if you don't lose weight by the time you are 40 you never will'. I realised then that it was time I gave up making excuses and did something about losing some weight.”

With the help of experts at Weight Watchers, Helen never looked back.

The 41-year-old, from Mendlesham, said: “It was the best decision I've ever made, I just wish I'd done it sooner.

“I've tried to lose weight all my life and I was a bit anxious that I wouldn't be able to do it.

“I thought I already didn't eat much and the thought of eating fruit and vegetable put me off as I thought I didn't like them.

“When I started tracking what I ate I was in for a big shock. I was OK at mealtimes but the snacking was a huge problem, so things had to change and I got to try more fruit and vegetables for a healthier diet.”

Between March 2006 and June this year, Helen managed to lose 5st 2lb (72lb), the equivalent of a sack and a half of potatoes.

She said: “Now I can buy clothes I like as opposed to what fits me.

“I feel a different woman, I feel as though I've got my life back, more energy and confidence - everyone comments on how much younger I look - and to be honest I feel younger.

“Life really has begun at 40 for me - I have a new body, a new hairstyle, a new wardrobe and best of all a new man in my life. I'm really happy.”

Have you lost a lot of weight? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk