JUST giving up Mars bars for Lent can prove a struggle to most of us.

But to find the inspiration to give up fatty foods while finding the time to encourage others to do the same takes a different kind of willpower.

Since losing five-and-a-half stones with Slimming World, mother-of-two Gill Knight has gone on to establish her own branch in Tarvin - so far managing to help members lose more than 1166lbs (83 stones, 4lbs) in just four months.

And her work, which has made Tarvin one of the best weight-losing areas in the country, has not gone unrewarded.

Just last month, Gill was awarded the Slimming World bronze award in recognition of her success and she expects to have moved on to the pearl award within the next month.

Gill, who lives in Great Sutton, said: 'This job is so special. Watching someone change from having no confidence, being embarrassed about their size and wearing shapeless clothes to someone who looks and feels great brings its own rewards on a daily basis. But to have your work recognised in this way is a very proud moment for me.'

Some 22 members greeted Gill in her first week, when she took over in October but, in just 17 weeks, the class has now grown to a membership of 105, five of whom are men.

This week, due to the group's success, Gill has added a 5.30pm session to her existing 7pm session to cater for new members coming in. She is also exploring the possibility of holding another session, at 9.30am.

Gill said: 'I am so proud of this group, the members are fantastic. The class's commitment to becoming healthy is incredible and, as a consultant, it gives me so much pride to see people who initially come to class, transform both in personality and looks before our very eyes.'

She added: 'Our group is such a friendly one, there is so much help and support for everyone and we make sure we have fun too. New members will be warmly welcomed.'

Anyone interested in joining the class, which is held every Wednesday at Tarvin Community Centre at either 5.30pm or 7pm, or who may be interested in attending a 9.30am class should call Gill for more information on 0151 348 1076.