Being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes two years ago was a shock wake up call for Winnie Lindley.

Winnie, 42, was warned by her doctor to lose weight or expect to die early.

The student nurse, from Gravesend, who then weighed a whopping 24 stone, said: “To be told that when you have just turned 40 was scary.”

Winnie joined Slimming World at the Amar Hall in Dartford and has since lost more than six stone.

Her amazing weight loss has won her the club’s Slimmer of the Year title for the second year running.

Winnie , of Dover Road East, said: “Looking back I was not comfortable in my own skin. I was unhealthy and couldn’t walk up stairs without getting out of breath.

“I love my food and still eat what I like, but in moderation. I used to have big bag of crisps and eat them in one go but now I have a small packet and I enjoy them just as much.

“I love my food and still eat what I like, but in moderation," winner Winnie Lindley

“I am also eating more fruit and vegetables and go out walking with friends without the embarrassment of having to stop every five minutes.”

Another bonus, having dropped from a dress size 26 to 16, is that she can wear clothes that she likes and feels comfortable in.

Winnie, who is married to Andrew and has three step-children, is now a volunteer at the group which meets every Saturday. She said: “I’m on the door meeting and greeting. You see some at the entrance wanting to run away. It can be daunting but I encourage them to come in and offer them a cup of tea.”

Winnie, who is in her second year at the University of Greenwich, said: “I feel very happy and am proud that I am proof that it can be done. I’m now hoping to make it a third year of winning the title.”

Her consultant Sarah Carfora, said: “Winnie is one of our biggest success stories. It has been an absolute pleasure to watch her on her journey and see her supporting others.”