A super slimmer from Wexford has reached the top 10 of a competition to find the UK and Ireland’s most successful female slimmers, after losing a life-changing 10st 2.5lbs.

Sinead Shannon, 36, won a place in the final of Slimming World’s Woman of the Year competition after members from her Wexford group voted for her to reach the next stage of the contest, where she was invited to share her story to a number of judges and fellow members.

Sinead, who slimmed from 21st 1lbs to 10st 12.5lbs, says:

“Before I found Slimming World, losing weight just felt impossible. I had resigned myself to being the size I was forever because I had so much weight to lose. I felt self-concious all the time and would get out of breath doing the most simple jobs.

“I’ve now found a new way of eating that fit easily around my life. The new habits that I’ve formed, with the support of my group and my Consultant, have helped me to finally take control of my weight once and for all – so I’m confident that I’ll be able to stay slim for life! Best of all is that all the way through my weight loss journey I’ve been able to still enjoy my favourite meals like beef chilli, spaghetti Bolognese and chicken curry, I just prepared and cooked them differently.

“At the start of my journey if you told me I would be representing my group at the finals of Slimming World’s Woman of the Year competition I would have laughed! I still can’t believe it!”

Sinead says that the supportive environment of her Slimming World group has been key to her success. She says:

“My group has been amazing, I pick up so many tips and recipe ideas, even to this day. The inspiration I get from the other members and my Consultant Edel has really helped me to believe in myself and stay motivated. The best thing is that I’ve formed new habits that will stick with me for life. Like filling my plate with plenty of veg and shopping and cooking completely differently. Being part of a group keeps you committed and accountable and that’s what’s really made the biggest difference to helping me reach my target weight.

“It’s been a tough year for so many people, but knowing I had the love and support of my group really kept me going when things got difficult. The virtual sessions were a lifeline but I have to say I am loving being back in person now! There’s nothing like that feeling of a buzzy Slimming World group.”

As well as losing weight, Sinead has a new-found passion for exercise. She says:

“As the weight came off I started to feel more energetic and decided to try something new. I’ve since taken up weight training and yoga and I just love it. I previously suffered with pain in my knees so running was never an option for me. Since I’ve lost weight, the pain has completely dissapeared and I love running now.”

Edel Hughes, who runs the Wexford group that Sinead attends, adds:

“Having Sinead in our group is wonderful. Her incredible transformation has inspired so many of her fellow slimmers and she gives them so much support each week – we are so lucky to have her. The change on the outside is amazing to see, but the transformation inside is really special too – she has so much more confidence now! We couldn’t be prouder.

“I hope that Sinead inspires other people in Wexford to join our group and take the first step towards lose weight for good. I’d love to welcome people to our group at Talbot Hotel, Wexford every Thursday at 9.30am, 11.00am or 6.00pm or feel free to call me on 858103336 for more information.”

Unfortunately, Sinead was not the overall winner of the competition. Slimming World’s Woman of the Year 2021 will be announced later this year.