A Fife super-slimmer has been congratulated by one of Britain’s top soap stars after reaching the semi-finals of a major national slimming competition.
Emma McLaughlin, 29, from Markinch, was one of just 39 women across the UK and Ireland to qualify for the semi-finals of Slimming World’s Woman of the Year 2017 after losing an impressive 8st 4.5lbs.
Although Emma missed out on the national crown, there was the small consolation of getting to meet Adam Thomas, who is best known for playing the role of Adam Barton in Emmerdale.
Emma, who slimmed from 18st 11lbs to 10st 6.5lbs, was nominated by her local Glenrothes Slimming World group and she came through the regional heat to qualify for the semi-finals.
She said: “Before I found Slimming World, losing weight always seemed such a struggle.
“If I wasn’t feeling hungry or deprived, it was the mental battles – like feeling as though I was missing out because I couldn’t socialise with my friends, go out for a meal or do things with my family.
“Losing weight has encouraged me to think about how active I am too, so I’ve taken up swimming, which I really enjoy.
“Especially as two years ago I would never have been seen in a swimming costume.”
Adam, who also appeared on ‘I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!’, was bowled over by Emma’s transformation.
He said: “I couldn’t believe the change in Emma, she looks incredible and has achieved so much.”
Claire Biggar, who runs the Glenrothes group that Emma attends, added: “Emma is a wonderful asset to our group.
“Her remarkable transformation has inspired so many of her fellow slimmers, so we feel very lucky to have her.
“The change on the outside is plain to see, yet she has changed so much inside, too.
“These days she’s bursting with confidence and ready to take on whatever challenges life throws at her.”
