It's no mystery – Jeanette's helping slimmers shed the pounds

A SLIMMING World manager from Teesdale has been congratulated for her efforts in helping people shed the pounds.

Jeanette Thompson, who manages the groups across the dale, received the words of encouragement from singer and TV presenter Peter Andre when he presented the annual Slimming World Awards.

The Mysterious Girl singer co-hosted the event with Slimming World founder and chairwoman Margaret Miles-Bramwell.

Ms Thompson said the singer’s presence at the awards was extra special because earlier in 2017 he supported Slimming World’s most successful fundraising event ever – The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw, which raised a record-breaking £3.3 million in just two weeks.

The annual clothes throw encourages members to donate the clothes, shoes, bags and accessories that are now too big for them to Cancer Research UK, by filling up specially-branded bags and taking them along to their weekly group sessions.

Ms Thompson said: “I couldn’t be prouder of the members in Teesdale.

“Throughout 2017 they have lost fantastic amounts of weight, with many of them hitting their target weights, improving their health and boosting their confidence.

“It’s so rewarding to see people being able to do things that they didn’t think were possible before losing weight, whether that’s having more energy, feeling happier, wearing smaller clothes, taking up new hobbies, reducing medication or doing more with their family and friends.

“Every week I feel extremely lucky to play even a small part in people’s achievements and I felt very honoured to represent Teesdale at the Slimming World Awards.”

She added: “Cuddling up to Peter was a real treat.

“He was bowled over by the difference Slimming World makes to people’s lives and it reminded me what an important and privileged role I have.

“Now I’m heading into 2018 super motivated to support even more people in Teesdale to be inspired to lose weight and lead healthier and happier lives.”

She said she was expecting a busy start to the new year, with many people attempting to shed the festive excess.

“Lots of people will be making resolutions to lose weight and improve their health this New Year.

“I’d love for anyone who’s thinking about losing weight this January to join us.

“They’ll discover a whole world of support and advice that’s sure to help them achieve their targets – and have a lot of fun along the way too.”

Peter, who set up his own foundation with Cancer Research UK – the Peter Andre Fund – after losing his brother to cancer, said he was thrilled to meet Ms Thompson at the awards.

He added: “I met so many incredible people who had lost amazing amounts of weight and transformed themselves – inside and out.

“Every one of them spoke passionately about how they couldn’t have made the changes they had to eat more healthily and become more active without the support, advice and encouragement of their consultant and group every week. So there’s absolutely no doubt in my mind people like Jeanette who run and manage the groups are very special.”