A 58-YEAR-OLD slimmer who shed nearly 11 stones scored big by reaching the semi-finals of a national competition.

Bertie Burford from Coleford was congratulated by former England, Manchester City and Chelsea football star Wayne Bridge after netting his weight loss goal to make the last-38 stage in Slimming World’s Man of the Year UK and Ireland 2017 competition.

The Forester, who slimmed from 23st 10lbs to 12st 11lbs at the Berry Hill Slimming World group, says it can be hard for men to admit that they need help to lose weight, and that it’s difficult to walk through the doors of a slimming club for the first time.

“It took quite a lot for me to admit that I had a weight problem to begin with, so actually deciding to do something about it and join my local Slimming World group was another big step,” he said.

“Thankfully I came to the conclusion that my health and happiness was the most important thing and plucked up the courage to go along that first time. My only regret now is that I didn’t join Slimming World sooner.”

Bertie added: “I was a bit concerned I’d have to survive on a bit of salad. I couldn’t have been more wrong though, I eat just as much as before now, if not more.

“I can fill up on all of my favourite foods and lose weight without ever having to go hungry… I’ve just had to make some simple swaps like ditching the olive oil or butter in favour of low-calorie cooking spray and trimming the fat off meat.

“I did worry that I’d be the only bloke in the room; I wasn’t though. And, even if I ever was, it wouldn’t matter because everyone is there for the same reason and it’s such a supportive and friendly environment. All the hints, tips and recipes you pick up in group are really helpful too.

“I was a bit hesitant to tell people I was going to a slimming group at first, but once they noticed I was losing weight, the results spoke for themselves and I didn’t get any of the comments I expected.”

Although Bertie didn’t win the competition, Wayne Bridge hailed him as a “top bloke” for his weight loss transformation.

Wayne, who has now hung up his football boots and appeared on I’m a Celebrity, Get me Out of Here!, said: “As a footballer, health and fitness has formed a huge part of my life, so I know how much effort and dedication it can take to stay fit and healthy – both mentally and physically.

“It was a pleasure to meet Bertie and I can’t believe his transformation, he doesn’t look like the same bloke!

“I really have to take my hat off to him for recognising that he had a problem and then having the courage to do something about it. I think many people would be guilty of thinking that going to a slimming club isn’t very manly so that makes it even harder for men to take that first step. He’s definitely a top bloke in my book.”

Claire Allen, who runs the Berry Hill group, added: “A lot of men think that slimming clubs are female-only zones, and Bertie is living proof that this isn’t the case.

“I hope Bertie inspires lots of other men in Coleford who’d like to lose weight to take that step.”

Anyone interested in joining the slimming group can contact Claire on 07977 226746.