A mother embarrassed by her size in photographs of her 40th birthday celebrations dropped eight clothes sizes.

Sarah Reader, of Drayton Avenue, Potters Bar, spent ten months cutting down on junk food, exercising and taking part in a Slimming World programme.

The 42-year-old was originally 14st 8lbs , but is now a healthy and sleek 10st – and wants to encourage others to do the same.

Before her dramatic weight loss, she had hip and back pain and was unable to run around with her two children, but she said Sliming World changed her life.

Originally 14 stone eight, she now fits into jeans and dresses which are a size ten or a 12, and said she feels much healthier, happier and more confident.

Having been overweight for years, she joined the Potters Bar group with her husband, Adam, and the pair won Couple of the Year 2013 for their efforts.

She said: “I still eat pasta, curries and a full English breakfast but this has changed how I eat and cook. I am amazed how much you can eat and that you never go hungry.

“I just couldn’t believe it when I walked through the door of Slimming World – everyone was so warm and friendly and I felt welcome.”

She is now launching her own group on Monday evenings at 5.30pm and 7.30pm and Tuesday mornings at 9.30am at the King Charles the Martyr Church, Potters Bar.