A Weston-super-Mare couple who lost almost eight stone in weight between them say they are delighted after reaching the semi-final of a national slimming competition.

Kevin and Samantha Hooper lost the weight after joining the town’s Slimming World group and were one of only 14 couples to make it through to the penultimate stage of the company’s Couple Of The Year competition.

They reached the semi-final after being voted as their group’s couple of the year by fellow members. They were then invited to represent Weston at the national finals, which took place at Slimming World’s head office in Derbyshire on March 13.

Kevin, who lost 3st 13lbs, said: “We already feel like winners because we’ve won the biggest prize out there – we feel great and we know we’ve got a long, healthy, happy life to look forward to together now.

“Losing weight has had a big impact on both our health and our relationship.

“As well as making healthy eating swaps, like switching to lean mince and cooking with low calorie cooking spray instead of oil, we’ve also become much more active and even started running and cycling. We also spend a lot more time walking and doing more activities with our children.”

Samantha, aged 46, lost more than four stone. She said: “People think losing weight is just eating less and moving more, but there is so much more to it than that.

“Losing weight together has definitely strengthened our relationship – we’re happier, healthier and fitter and we’ve been on that journey together, which makes it more special.”