Linsey, the local Slimming world consultant in Alsager, wanted to share her story of lockdown so that other people in the area may realise they are not on their own and if they want to lose weight they can in a safe and welcoming environment.

Linsey said: "What a crazy seventeen months it's been. I never thought I would ever see a pandemic in my lifetime and as a self-employed business owner, it's been very tough.

"To understand my journey, I need to share my story pre-Covid."

When Linsey joined Slimming World as a member in April 2013, she lost 9 ½ stone and became a consultant in 2014.

2021 is her seventh year of being a consultant and it's a job she "loves".

Linsey added: "I love being able to help people feel great about themselves and be a part of their weight loss journey."

In 2019, Linsey fell down the stairs and broke her ankle and ended up having four operations in a year.

Basically, she couldn't walk for over year due to the multi operations. During this time, she gained weight and she was already in her own "mini lockdown" where she could not leave the house.

Then in March 2020, Covid hit and we went into a national lockdown. But this time Linsey wasn't locked in the house on her own, now she has two children and her husband was also "locked in with her".

Like a lot of people during these uncertain times, Linsey turned towards food to help when the days seemed so "dark and frightening" and of course trying to juggle to home schooling and saving her business all at the same time.

Linsey continued: "I believe in Slimming World 100% and its methods because they have changed my life.

"I know losing weight isn't just as simple as stopping eating high calorie food.

"There is the psychological side of people's relationship with food. Getting to know a person as a slimmer, finding out what makes them tick and empowering people to forgive themselves and then become successful in their own weight lose journey by taking control.

"I'm far from prefect and I have struggled during the past two years, but now I am back on my own journey and I'm ready to lose weight again.

"I want to let people know that if during this pandemic they have gained a few extra pounds please don't beat yourself up.

"Be kind to yourself because you've experienced something none of us will hopefully ever experience again.

"If you feel you want to lose those extra pounds you can at Slimming World.

"The doors are open again and groups are up and running like normal.

"In the local area my group is on Tuesday at Alsager Community Church 8.45am, 10.15am, 5.30pm and 7pm. Call me on 07786 681693, a warm welcome awaits you."