A SUPER slimmer from Pickering reached the semi-finals of a national competition after losing nearly 11 stone.

Sue Robson was one of 45 women from across the UK and Ireland to make the finals of Slimming World’s Woman of the Year 2014 competition.

She joined the Pickering Slimming World group in May 2012 and has since seen her weight fall from 20st 11lbs to 9st 12lbs.

Sue's transformation inspired fellow members of the group to vote her as their representative in the annual Woman of the Year competition.

Although she did not make the final ten, Sue said she was delighted with her achievements.

“I can remember the first time I walked into the group like it was yesterday, I felt so self-conscious and was extremely nervous, everyone was really welcoming though and I soon made friends," she added.

"Now I look forward to seeing everyone and how they’ve got on. There’s a serious side too though and we really are there for one another which is really important, especially if you’re having a tough week. If I’ve ever been struggling the group have been there to remind me how far I’ve come and not to give up as well as giving me great ideas for getting back on track.”

Linda Welch, who runs the Pickering group, said she was extremely proud of her.

“Sue hasn’t only changed how she looks, she’s a different woman on the inside too," she added.

"She had blossomed into a happy, confident woman and it’s been a pleasure to share in her journey. She’s already such an inspiration to so many of us in the Pickering group and I hope she’ll inspire even more people now.”

For more information about Pickering Slimming World group phone Linda on 07870 692423.