Slimmers raise a big fat £35,000 for hospice
Twenty people have lost 530lb between them '“ the equivalent of two Arnold Schwarzeneggers '“ in the Hospice of St Francis' annual weight loss challenge, The Biggest Loser.
As well as losing their own pounds, the dedicated crew also raised an amazing £35,000 for the hospice – the most ever raised from the annual event.
The overall winner was Luke Jelfs from Boxmoor, who lost 45lb and 52 per cent of his total body fat.
Accountant Luke, aged 46, said: “The challenge was fantastic and I am absolutely delighted with my weight loss – as is my wife!
“It’s made such a big difference to me, to my weight, to my attitude to eating and it’s done wonders for my self-esteem.
“For years I have been in a vicious cycle of drinking too much, eating a poor diet and not exercising enough apart from occasionally walking my dogs Murphy and Dotty.
“I knew I needed to lose weight but have always put if off.
“I’m so glad I entered the challenge and I can’t recommend it highly enough
“My target was £500 but actually the fundraising was much easier than I thought and I’ve raised £2,700 mainly because friends and family just wanted to support me and give to the hospice.”
The Biggest Loser runners-up were Karen Bower from Berkhamsted and Amy Heathfield from Hemel.
The team of 20 also included local Heart FM Breakfast Show DJ Daniel Fox.