AFTER ditching the faddy diets a Redditch mom has shed more than eight stone - turning her life around.

Dione Andrews, who has struggled with her weight since she was nine-years-old, was diagnosed with osteoarthritis and could barely walk 100 metres without experiencing excruciating knee and back pain.

She even had to start using a stick to help her mobility.

She knew her weight was contributing to her health problems so when a friend recommended Slimming World, she decided to go along.

Now, after having lost eight stone in just 16 months, she says she feels like a new person.

Mrs Andrews, who goes to Headless Cross Slimming World group, said: "I can walk for miles now and I really enjoy taking the dog for walks around the lake.

“Life is fun now and I’m going to enjoy it. We only get one body and I’m so thankful for my health, new friends and my new life."

She has gone from a size 26/28 to a size 14/16.

“When I bought my first pair of size 14 jeans, I was beyond thrilled," she said.

"I cannot put into words how grateful I am to Slimming World, my consultant and my group for supporting me – and still supporting me – through my journey.”

Mrs Andrews now wants to help others so has opened a new slimming group at the Kingfisher Shopping Centre, in the Reddi-rooms, every Friday at 9.30am.