The couple have lost five stone together and say they used old photos to stop their temptations
Matt Lee Senior Multimedia Journalist
19:30, 04 Jan 2026
(Image: Slimming World)
An Essex couple have shared the ‘unconventional’ methods that helped them lose a combined five stone. Tina Withers and Kevin Weedon have been members of the Slimming World group based out of Springfield Park Baptist Church in Chelmsford.
The pair made the choice to lose weight not due to an upcoming holiday or life event, but “for our health and our future”. The couple have lost an incredible five stone between them, and Kevin hit his target weight at the start of November followed by Tina just before Christmas.
Kevin is now able to run up the stairs without being left gasping for breath. And for Tina, the hard work has led to recognition within their Slimming World group, leading her to remember that recognition isn’t about perfection but perseverance. Even their daughter has lost weight too and gained confidence and knowledge of healthy habits.
Revealing their secrets to weight loss, Kevin said: “As for how we support each other – well, our methods are unconventional. We take the mick out of each other mainly.
“When temptation strikes, we pull out old photos as a reminder of how far we’ve come. And yes, exchanging all your SWIP’s (Slimming World Individual Picks) for whiskey might not be in the handbook, but it certainly keeps morale high.”
The couple added: “The group itself has become a lifeline. It’s more than a weigh‑in; it’s a community. A room full of characters who make you laugh, listen, and feel understood.
“There’s no judgement – only encouragement, honesty, and the shared relief of knowing you’re not alone. In that room, a gain isn’t a failure; it’s a moment. A moment you move past together.”
Slimming World Consultant Sarah Watts said: “It’s all about consistency, showing up for yourselves each week at group. I promise my members from day one, that there will never be any judgement.
“Whatever your week has been like, the best place is group, to get your plan in place for your next seven days. We know that motivation and commitment can wane but in group we work on techniques and strategies to achieve this consistency.”