Who says you can't eat cake and lose weight?!

In efforts to slim down and raise money for charity, members of Dorchester Slimming World groups have lost almost 10,000lbs in five months.

And to celebrate the groups gathered to enjoy some delicious, yet low-calorie, cakes.

Members were asked to fill purple Cancer Research bags with clothes they had slimmed out of to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

A total of 50 bags were collected from Dorchester groups, with many more were collected across the county.

Each gift aided bag is set to raise around £25 to £30.

The bags were collected as members gathered at St George's Church Hall in Fordington, a Saturday morning group venue, to celebrate the achievement, and enjoy some delicious home-made, low-calorie cakes, including red velvet, chocolate, carrot cake and coffee and walnut cake made by member Gilly Boswell.

Tracie Williams from Slimming World said the weight loss was achieved by the Dorchester, Puddletown and Broadmayne groups between January 1 and May 31.

She said: "Many people have been either directly or indirectly affected by cancer, it being amongst the biggest causes of premature death, and research has shown that there can be a link with being overweight or obese.

"The groups lost almost 10,000 lbs, that is 704.25 stone, which is the equivalent of nine polar bears or 10 grand pianos.

"Members are so supportive of each other, there is never any judgement if anyone ever has a tough week and all the groups are warm, friendly and welcoming.

"In the groups there are lots of tips, ideas and sharing about different recipes, often quick and easy, which the whole family can enjoy.

"There is no need to cook separately as it is normal family food and members are out enjoying barbecues and socialising, knowing the healthiest choices to make, so they can still enjoy themselves, not feel like they are missing out, enjoying a glass of wine or cider and still lose weight.

"The eating plan, known as 'food optimising' suits everyone, even members with diabetes, members who are pregnant and breastfeeding.

"And young members from ages 11 to 15, with a parent or guardian attending as a member or non member, can follow the 'Free To Go' plan, whereby they can choose healthier options by making 'cool swaps', meaning they won't be standing out from their peers. "Foods such as burgers, fish and chips, and KFC style chicken are included in the foods the young members can enjoy."