A Hartlepool slimmer says losing nearly six stone has given her a new lease of life after reaching the semi-finals of Slimming’s Worlds national Woman of the Year competition.

Amy McBean, 32, celebrated her achievement with double Olympic boxing champion Nicola Adams, who praised the dedication behind her success and was “blown away” by her transformation.

Amy was one of just 36 women to secure a spot at the semi-finals of Slimming World’s Woman of the Year 2026 competition after losing five stone and nine pounds.

She said: “Before joining Slimming World, I felt trapped by my weight.

Amy McBean (left) and double Olympic boxing champion Nicola Adams at Slimming World’s Woman of the Year 2026 competition.

placeholder image — Amy McBean (left) and double Olympic boxing champion Nicola Adams at Slimming World’s Woman of the Year 2026 competition.

"My confidence was so low and I was constantly worrying about my weight.

"It affected my health and stopped me from living life the way I wanted to.

"I knew I wanted things to be different, I just needed the right help me get there.

"While weight-loss medications can be the right choice for some people, I wanted to make lasting changes to the way I eat and live, and being part of a group gave me the support and accountability I was looking for.

Amy was one of just 36 women to secure a spot at the semi-finals after losing five stone and nine pounds.

“It was finding out my nana had been diagnosed with cancer and having her health taken away from her without any choice that made me realise something had to change.

"I joined Slimming World hoping to lose weight but I gained so much more.”

Nicola Adams, who made history as the first woman to win an Olympic boxing gold medal for Team GB, said: "The commitment and dedication it must have taken Amy to lose nearly six stone is remarkable.

"Success doesn't happen overnight – whether in sport or in life – and she’s proof of what can be achieved when you stay focused on your goal.

"Reaching the national semi-finals is a fantastic achievement and Amy should feel enormously proud of how far she's come."

Slimming World consultant Gill Barkworth, who runs the Hartlepool Slimming World group, said: “We know that losing weight can feel daunting, which is why having support is so important.

"Whether you're starting your journey for the very first time, returning to Slimming World, or looking for support alongside weight-loss medication, we'd love to welcome you to our group.”