A Cockermouth woman is feeling better than ever after losing more than five stone in weight and making it into the regional finals of a slimming group competition.

Linda Stephenson-Winder has dropped from a size 20/22 to a 10/12 since January last year.

"I feel fantastic, I have so much energy. I never did this as a vanity thing but for health reasons. I want to be around for as long as I can," said Linda, 47.

"I wish I had done it years ago!"

Linda, who works at the Lakes Home Centre, has lost 5st 2.5lbs thanks to Slimming World, which has various Cockermouth groups.

"I was dragged along by a friend," said Linda, who is married to Billy and has twins Hannah and Jack, 16.

"But it's been great, the support has been tremendous, I could not have done it without them.

""It's basically about a healthy lifestyle, changing bad habits for good. You can eat lots of healthy food and never feel hungry, it's about changing your mindset."

She was delighted to make it through to Slimming World's Woman of the Year regional final in Preston, after being nominated by members of her group.

"It was great to hear everyone's inspiring stories," said Linda, who is a keen walker.