A group of York women are scrumming down for the battle of the slimmest to lose some of that weight gained over Christmas and raise money for charity.

Sonia Dickinson, consultant for the Lidgett Grove Slimming World group, has challenged fellow consultant Sue Hayes, of the Dringhouses group, to a sponsored slim in aid of Barnardo's.

The determined pair, who have lost seven stone between them, have even roped in the York Acorn Rugby Club to help them get into shape by joining in with their gruelling training sessions.

Sonia's partner, Kevin Waters, plays in the team and arranged for the women to train with them, or with the women's team if they prefer.

Sue said: "I've had a word with my class and they accept the challenge to either raise £50 or lose a total of 150lb per class in six weeks. We've also thrown it open to all the other York classes and members of the public.

"We will present a trophy to the class which loses the most weight, a trophy for the person who loses the most weight and one for the class which raises the most money towards Barnardo's."

To take part in the sponsored slim, call Sonia on York 331528 or Sue on York 331714.