A Llanwrtyd Wells town councillor and mayor is celebrating a weight loss of 6st 8lb after turning her health around through Slimming World.

Lynda Pace-Avery has served on Llanwrtyd Wells Town Council since 2016. She was mayor from 2019 to 2022 and was elected mayor again in May this year.

She attends Slimming World Builth Wells, where consultant Anna James runs sessions. She joined the group in January 2024 after Anna’s Builth Wells meetings were launched. She previously attended groups led by Maggie Richards and Dawn Sheeys.

Anna said: “Lynda is an absolute star and a much-loved member of our 5:30pm group. Her determination, commitment and dedication are truly inspiring. She brightens up every session with her smile, wonderful personality and fabulous dresses! We are all incredibly proud of what she has achieved.”

Lynda said she had struggled with her weight since childhood. She said: “My mother left home when I was eight and my father worked long hours. We lived mainly on convenience foods and Dad would always pile our plates high because that was his way of showing love. We were taught to clear our plates too.”

She said she gained more weight while working long hours managing children’s centres in Doncaster, with stress and emotional eating adding to the problem.

After redundancy, financial difficulties and a period of depression, she moved to Wales for a fresh start. Her weight later reached almost 23 stone.

She said things began to change when neighbours encouraged her to join Slimming World.

“I joined the social team and felt good. Most of my friends and acquaintances in Wales came through Slimming World. It became a lifeline for me,” she said.

She initially lost five stone with Slimming World consultant Maggie Richard, but some of the weight returned during the Covid pandemic. In January 2024, she joined Anna’s new group in Builth Wells and was determined to get back on track.

Sadly, the loss of her sister presented another challenge, but Lynda refused to give up.

“Anna never gave up on me. Last year something just clicked. I’ve focused on eating properly, reducing my portion sizes and looking after myself. My health and mobility have improved so much,” she said.

She now swims twice a week and attends AquaFit classes.

“I have made wonderful friends through the group, thanks to Maggie, Dawn, Anna and the 5:30pm group,” she said.

Anna added: “Lynda’s journey shows that it’s never too late to make positive changes. She inspires everyone around her and proves that small, consistent steps can lead to life-changing results.”

For anyone considering taking the first step towards a healthier lifestyle, Anna has a simple message: “If you’ve been thinking about joining us, take this as your sign, it will change your life for the better and you will be surrounded by support, encouragement and friendships and it is the best feeling ever!”

For more information about joining Slimming World in Builth Wells, you call Anna on 07929 483 784.