TWO determined grandparents have been on a weight loss journey - and lost an incredible 17st between them.

Denise Elliott, from Weymouth, and Bob Moore, from Dorchester, stepped into Slimming World in 209 and less than two years later they have each lost more than 8st.

Denise, 53, had struggled with her weight for most of her adult life. She also suffers with fibromyalgia which has left her unable to do exercise without experiencing pain.

After years of feeling unhappy with her size she joined the Weymouth Slimming World branch in July 2019 determined to make some permanent changes - and has gone down six dress sizes.

She said: "Walking into Slimming World for the first time was absolutely terrifying but the minute I went through the door I was welcomed and made to feel part of the group.

"By the end of 12 weeks I had lost more than two stone which really motivated me to keep going. I still have 2st to lose which I hope to do by the end of July which will mark two years since my weight loss journey started."

Denise, an ex-childcare manager, has lost 8st and one pound and gone from a dress size 26 to a size 14.

She did not used to be able to sit on the floor to play with her five grandchildren but after her weight loss she can sit and play.

Bob, 78, was motivated to lose weight after he was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes and high blood pressure. He had tried Slimming World before and managed to lose 4st in time for his daughter's wedding in 1997, but gained the weight back.

In May 2019 he decided to try the programme again and he has been thrilled with the results.

He said: "I have lost 9st since I started and it has felt amazing. I struggled to do things with my 11 grandchildren before the weight came off but now I have a lot more energy and it has made such a difference to my life."

Bob, a retired vet, no longer has diabetes and has stopped taking tablets to lower his blood pressure.

He said: "Weight loss all happens between your ears. If you have the motivation to do it then you can. It is hard work and requires self-discipline but it is achievable."