A “super slimmer” says he feels like a new man after losing more than six stone in less than six months.

Before joining Slimming World, Darren Housley tipped the scales at 22st 1lb.

Now the 43-year-old, of Green Lane, Easingwold, has dropped to 16 stone after swapping his binge-eating habits for a healthier lifestyle.

And while Darren continues on his aim of losing a further 15lbs – to reach is ultimate target of a whopping 100lbs weight loss – he has become a Slimming World consultant himself to help others who want to drop the pounds. Darren said he joined Slimming World last October after becoming unhappy with the way he looked.

He said he had struggled to lose weight before, but it was spotting a picture of himself on holiday that spurred him on.

“I looked like the body double for Cyril Smith,” he said. “I had tried to lose weight on my own and failed but with the support, help and advice of Slimming World it was so much easier.”

Darren said he loved cheese and wine and admits he used to eat large portions.

He said: “You don’t get to 22 stone if you don’t enjoy your food. I love my food but I have learned it is about a healthy balance. I don’t survive on lettuce leaves now – I still eat curries and chips – but I eat it in moderation.”

Darren credits the support he received from Slimming World for helping him lose the pounds.

He said: “The group helped me discover weight loss without the need for hunger and provided ideas to help boost weight loss by taking simple exercises such getting off the bus a few stops earlier, using a bike to get to work or taking the stairs instead of using a lift.” Darren lost two stone in the first month and a whooping 6st 1lb since joining the group and said he now has the confidence to tackle things he never though possible.

“There were so many things I couldn’t do before, like parachuting and rally driving as I was too heavy.

“But next month I’m going on a rally experience, and a parachute jump is on my to-do list.

“I have more confidence to do things now. I used to be a little embarrassed before due to my size.”

Darren is now inspiring fellow dieters after becoming a Slimming World consultant.

He launched a group in Easlngwold last month, which has more than 70 members, and this week is launching a new group in Acomb.

For details on either group, email Darren at darren.slimmingworld@gmail.com or phone 07580 020785.

Darren’s very vital statistics

BEFORE: Darren weighed 22 stone 1lbs.

He ate cheese, bread, takeaways and drank wine.

AFTER: Darren weighs 16 stone.

He eats healthier food, with lots of fruit and vegetables, and has cut down on his alcohol intake.