A Great Yarmouth woman who overcame unhealthy eating habits is using her experience to help others adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Kellie Sparkes began her weight loss journey in 2017 after she gained three stone following a debilitating back injury and coping with the loss of her father the year before. 

Before turning her life around, Ms Sparkes got caught in a cycle of comfort eating, poor health and low self-confidence.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Kellie Sparkes gained weight after the death of her father and suffering a back injury. Picture - Kellie SparkesKellie Sparkes gained weight after the death of her father and suffering a back injury. Picture - Kellie Sparkes (Image: Kellie Sparkes)

The single mum said: "When my daughters went to bed, I liked nothing more than plopping myself in front of the TV and sipping wine and eating a large bag of crisps, followed by a sharing size chocolate to myself."

After putting on three stone, Ms Sparkes found she was getting out of breath and was struggling to walk.

She knew she had to make a change and joined the Newtown Slimming World group at the Methodist Church on Caister Road.

READ MORE: Baby joy for woman who lost more than six stone to become a mum

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Kellie after losing two-and-a-half stone while a member of the Newtown Slimming World group. Picture - Kellie SparkesKellie after losing two-and-a-half stone while a member of the Newtown Slimming World group. Picture - Kellie Sparkes (Image: Kellie Sparkes)

Ms Sparkes said: "I was terrified that first night and embarrassed I had allowed myself to become the weight I was, but the consultant and group were so welcoming."

Feeling inspired after the first session, Ms Sparkes lost 4lbs in her first week and was two-and-a-half stone lighter a year later. She was also walking more without her walking stick and had started exercising.

Remaining an active group member for five years, Ms Sparkes has now become a Slimming World consultant to inspire more people.

"As someone who has lost weight, I know the challenges people can face," Ms Sparkes said.

"Which is why, along with the group, I will be there to support every one of my members to their chosen target weight."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Since her weight loss, Kellie has started playing golf. Picture - Kellie SparkesSince her weight loss, Kellie has started playing golf. Picture - Kellie Sparkes (Image: Kellie Sparkes)

Ms Sparkes will be holding weekly sessions at Newtown Methodist Church from Thursday, June 15, at 5.30pm and 7pm.

For more information, call Ms Sparkes on 0778 0001570 or visit Kellie’s Great Yarmouth SW Groups on Facebook.