I have always struggled with my weight most of my life and have never been entirely happy. In May 2008 I was at an all time low, I had had a back operation four years ago and the weight had just piled on. At my heaviest I couldn't even look in the mirror. I noticed an advert for a ladies only gym called Gymophobics and decided I’d had enough - it was time to do something.

The thought of going into a gym totally filled me with dread but all the girls were so friendly and of course it was ladies only. All the ladies who attend have one thing in common and that is to feel better about themselves.

The weight and inches dropped off gradually at first but once I started it got easier and easier. The circuit is also so easy to do and its enjoyable.

I am now at my target weight and feel great. My confidence has returned and I really enjoy shopping for clothes again. The girls are absolute stars and I've made some great friends as well.

Angela Chappell has struggled with her weight for the last few years, mainly due to an under active thyroid gland. No matter what she did the weight just seemed to pile on. She tried several diets but never seemed to lose much weight.

Then in February 2011 a friend from work told her about Gymophobics in Telford and asked if she would like to go along with her to see what it was like. Angela says "I was very hesitant at first as the thought of going to a gym terrified me, but I went along anyway. After being shown around by a very friendly Instructor I made the decision to join. It was the best decision I have ever made!”

In January 2010 my husband of 21 years told me I was too fat and he didn’t fancy me anymore. Before I could do much about it, I fell in the snow and ended up trapping my sciatic nerve.

This meant I was in absolute agony, taking a cocktail of pills. I came off crutches in June 2010 and was determined to lose weight and then hopefully keep my husband.

I read about Gymophobics in the newspaper and decided to go and have a Guest visit.The instructors were very friendly and understood my need not to stress my back in any way. I started off slowly, taking it easy and lost 4 stone 2 lbs. Who would have believed it!

Then in September 2010 my husband left me anyway. Everyone at Gymophobics were really supportive. I still have quite a bit of weight to lose but I am now doing it for myself and no one else.

I have made some lovely friends through Gymophobics. They have cheered me up when I was down, and encouraged me to get me where I am today.

Oh did I forget to mention I also have a new man in my life who is amazing!!

What a difference 15 months can make, thanks to Gymophobics!