Powys twins through to Slimming World national finals
Kat James and Nat Morgan joined their local Slimming World group because they were frustrated at not being able to buy clothes that would fit them in high street stores.
Since then, they've transformed not only their weight, but their health, habits and confidence too.
They won the title of Brecon Slimming World's Two Together competition – which recognises and celebrates duos who are supporting each other on their weight loss journey.
This earned the twins a place at the national finals.
'What I've love most about Slimming World is how free I've felt,' said Kat, who once weighed 13st 7lbs and is now 9st 6.5lbs.
'When I've tried losing weight before I felt restricted and couldn't sustain it for long. I never thought I'd lose weight without giving up all the foods I enjoy like pizza, cheese and fast food, but I've learnt lasting weight loss is about balance – not restriction.
'My consultant Shelly helped me to see how the ideas from other members in the group could help me overcome my own personal hurdles and stoppers.
'I've learnt so much from everyone in the group and felt supported by Shelly every single step of the way. The group is just incredible, it's like a second family now.'
Nat, who has gone from 13st 12.5lbs to 10st 5.5lbs, said the journey wouldn't have been the same without the group, and Kat.
'There were weeks when I felt like giving up, but having Kat there too made all the difference,' she said.
'We've planned our weeks together and kept each other focused. And the group has cheered us on, picked us up when we needed it and shared so many great tips.
'I look forward to it every week and catching up with members who've become friends. It's a space where I feel understood, never judged and always inspired.'
As they lost weight, the pair also found themselves embracing a more active lifestyle. 'Before joining Slimming World, even the idea of exercising felt overwhelming,' added Nat.
'But my consultant made me realise I could take small steps towards my goals and hearing how others had started small made me believe I could do it too.
'I began by joining a gym and slowly built up my activity. Now, I go up to four times a week and I genuinely enjoy it.'
Now, group winners Kat and Nat have reached the semi-finals at Slimming World's head office in Derbyshire, where they will be joined by 12 fellow pairs to share their inspiring stories. A judging panel will select the overall winners.
Shelly Willetts, who runs the Brecon Slimming World group, said: 'I'm beyond proud of Kat and Nat. Their dedication, positivity and the way they lift everyone else in group is just amazing.
'They're living proof that with the right support and the right tools real change is possible.
'They've shared recipes, celebrated milestones and kept each other focused, they've overhauled their habits together and found their sparkle again.'
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