Slimmers across Whitchurch and Wem have yet again raised thousands of pounds for charity – by simply throwing out clothes that no longer fit.

Around £5,000 was raised by attendees of Slimming World Groups in both towns, run by consultant Tina Hayward, as more than 200 bags of old clothes were 'thrown out', to be donated to Cancer Research UK, as part of the Big Golden Slimming World Clothes Throw.

Tina is delighted with her members' efforts and hopes they can also achieve a VIP shopping trip after they found two 'golden bags' to throw away.

“I can’t quite believe how many bags we managed to collect," she said. "And the fact we found some gold ones too – I can’t wait to see if any of my members are winners!

“I knew my members were amazing but I didn’t expect such an incredible level of effort.

“Seeing members donate their too-big clothes is just the cherry on top for me as a consultant. What I find so special is seeing members transform before my eyes as they lose weight.

"Many go from shy, apprehensive individuals who join with their confidence at rock bottom. They don’t believe they could ever lose the weight they dream of losing.

"When I look them in the eye and tell them they absolutely can be the size they want to be – whatever that is – and that I truly believe in them, things start to change.

“So many people don’t know how much of a difference losing weight can make to health – including reducing the risk of developing a range of problems including some types of cancer.

"Hopefully this campaign and our efforts for charity will help inspire more people in Wem & Whitchurch to improve their health and change their lives by losing weight too.

"I’m so proud of my members and their efforts. They really do put their heart into everything they do. Whether it’s their weight loss, supporting each other each week or raising money for charity – they continually blow me away.”

Each of the filled bags is worth around £25 to the charity, and this year’s campaign is aiming to beat 2018's total of £3million in just two weeks. Since 2012 the partnership has generated more than £12million worth of stock.

Anyone who would like to find out more about Slimming World is invited to get in touch with Tina Hayward on 07894 225813.