TRYING to lose weight over the festive season can be a particularly challenging time, and that is why a Slimming World Consultant says her group will not be shutting up shop for Christmas.

Lynsey Blackshaw, who runs the Ellesmere Port Slimming World group every Monday at St. Saviour’s Club, said she knows that in the run up to Christmas, on the day itself and during the end of year period it can be even harder than usual to make healthy choices and stay on track towards your weight-loss goals.

She said: “Busy schedules can leave little time to prepare and cook healthy meals and make it hard to find the space to fit in your regular activity, and there are lots of parties and temptations around too. So, I would not be doing my job if I disappeared at the very time my members need me the most.

“When members first join our Slimming World group, we both make a commitment. They commit to thinking about what they want to achieve and make plans to get there, and I promise to do everything in my power to help them to reach their target. I let them know I will be there for them, and I mean it – all year round.

Lynsey, who recently hit her weight loss target after she shed six stone as a member herself, said that her group will still meet to swap healthy recipe ideas and share strategies for tackling the inevitable challenges that Christmas and New Year can bring.

She adds: “We celebrate everyone’s achievements – big and small – and help one another to get back on track if we do have any setbacks. By being there, no matter what the season or what the weather, we are keeping our promise to help members achieve their dreams.

“I am confident that thanks to the support my members have been giving and receiving throughout December, they will all be reaching the New Year feeling lighter and brighter than ever.”

The Ellesmere Port Slimming World group is held every Monday evening at 5pm and 7pm at St. Savour’s Club on Tarporley Road.

For more information, contact Lynsey on 07710 198021 or email lynseyblackshaw@hotmail.com.