LEARNING how to make small changes to her diet and lifestyle has resulted in a huge transformation for one Milford Haven woman.

Forty-seven-year-old Julie Pollard lost more than five stone by following the Weight Watchers programme, and is now using her weight loss success to inspire others to lead a healthier lifestyle.

Julie decided to lose weight when she met an old acquaintance who said ‘I see you haven’t bothered to do anything about your weight!’.

"I laughed, it was either that or burst into tears," said Julie.

"I had always struggled with my weight and then when I had my daughter I found it even harder to lose weight.

"I was so busy with being a mum, the rest of the family and work, that I never seemed to have time to look after myself as well."

Coupled with the death of her brother the year before, Julie decided it was time to make a big change.

"I decided life was too short to be miserable about my weight," she said.

"My brother used to say to me ‘if something is making you unhappy, do something to change it’.

Julie started attending Weight Watchers meetings in Haverfordwest, and soon discovered that making small changes to portion size, and making smarter food choices, could make a big difference to her health.

"It was so flexible too, I could fit it around my life and the weight kept coming off," she said.

As well as gaining more energy and confidence, Julie has also discovered a love of exercise, and has so far completed two half-marathons and competes in various Go-Tri events.

"Being able to buy new clothes in smaller sizes is amazing," she said. "More importantly, it has helped me to change my relationship with food, and I know I will never go back to my old ways.”

Julie was so thrilled with her success and new healthy lifestyle that she wanted to inspire others, and starts work as a Wight Watchers leader this month.

"I know what it feels like to be unhappy with your health and shape, and I know all the reasons you feel like you can’t do anything about it – but I’ve found a way to turn that around, and so will you," she said.

“Honestly, if I can do it, anyone can."

To find out more about the new Weight Watchers meeting at Pill Social Centre call Julie on 07973 228981, or visit www.weightwatchers.co.uk to find out more.