How David's stag do embarrassment inspired him to shed nearly 12 stone

David, of Borough Road, South Shields, has dropped from 32st to just over 20st in 15 months - giving him a spectacular new lease of life.

The spur to change came when he deliberately avoided a rally car challenge set up for brother Colin’s stag do - fearing he would not fit in the car.

Now he is barely recognisable to his former self and has just announced his engagement and is expecting to become a father for the third time.

His efforts have now been rewarded by being named Man of the Year by the South Shields New Crown group of Slimming World.

David, who turned 40 just weeks ago, said: “Deep down, I had been unhappy with my weight for a long time. Mow my mates say I am unrecognisable.

“Joining Slimming World was scary at first, but I received a very warm welcome. I can honestly say it’s the best thing I’ve ever done.

“Like many men, I thought slimming clubs were aimed at women and assumed the focus would be on diet food and talking about people’s emotions.

“Instead, I found the group to be full of laughter and banter where everyone was very supportive of each other, and with a lot of humour thrown in.

David set to work by using Slimming World’s Food Optimising Eating Plan, which allows people to enjoy generous portions of healthy food.

It means he can continue to eat his favourite Sunday dinners and tuck in to chilli and spaghetti Bolognese.

He mixes good food with gym workouts, running, cycling, combat and boxing.

Sharon Simpson, who runs Slimming World’s New Crown and the Armstrong Hall groups, both in South Shields, said: “I’m incredibly proud of David.

“He has and is doing brilliantly and we are all amazed at his transformation, he’s a real inspiration to the group.”

Sharon’s New Crown group runs on Thursdays and Fridays and her Armstrong Hall group every Wednesday morning.

She can be contacted for more information on 07765 253 342.

Information on Slimming World is at www.slimmingworld.co.uk or on 0344 897 8000.