Irene, lost 3 stone 5lbs on our Light Choices diet and achieved her dream...fitting into her wedding dress again. Irene's chosen Calendar Charity is Sands, Stillbirth and neonatal death charity. Supporting anyone affected by the death of a baby and promoting research to reduce the loss of babies' lives. All proceeds for the Calendar will go to the listed charities.

Irene spoke to us about her journey.

What weight were you when you joined and what is your current weight?
I had a BMI of 34 and I weighed 13 stone. Now I weigh 9 stone 11 lbs and my BMI has dropped to 26.

How has your life changed for the better in 2010?
I was a size 16, but now I am a size 10. I am healthier and fitter, my high blood pressure has settled down and the weight on my arthritic knee joints reduced. The increase in self esteem and the complimentary comments I have received are wonderful. After recent surgery a nurse referred to me as a “lightweight” to push on a trolley. That felt brilliant.

What steps have you taken to achieve this positive change?
Even at the beginning I knew that I’d need at least a year to do things properly and I accepted that there was no quick fix . Due to my health problems I haven’t been able to do much exercise, so I have been focused on the meal plan. I’ve realised that the food I ate previously was the right sort of food but just far too much of it.

Is there something you love doing that has lead to this change?
I used to love clothes shopping but over the years it has got more and more dis-spiriting. I have just loved going down through the sizes and going shopping full of pleasure instead of dread.

Any other information you would like to give?
Tesco diets and my husband have helped me to stay motivated. I have re-educated myself and the diet plan is now a way of life. This is the way I will eat forever. I am retiring shortly and I’m approaching a new phase in my life with a really positive frame of mind.

Tell us about your photos?
My after photo shows me on 25th September 2010 which was my 60th birthday. I got it into my head to try my wedding dress on and lo and behold it fitted.