A WHITEINCH teenager who lost four stones in weight in just a few months is urging others to get behind a healthy food kick.

Ross Oliphant was recently crowned Young Slimmer of the Year after shedding the pounds in only 20 weeks.

The 18-year-old offered his backing to “Free Food February”, a Slimming World campaign running until March 3 to show residents how to lose weight without going hungry.

Ross said: “At first I couldn’t believe how much food I could eat. I love the fact that no food is banned and that I never feel hungry on the plan. 

“Thanks to the plan and picking up ideas shared by other members in group, I’ve learned loads about food and cooking. 

“I do cook sometimes and learning more all the time. 

“I feel like a completely different person. I already feel much fitter and my weight is no longer holding me back and I am now going to the gym.”

He added: “Some of my friends have joined after seeing how well I have done.”

Sarahjane Cooper, who runs the Whiteinch weight-loss group, said: “Ross is a huge inspiration in the group.

“The change in him in such a short space of time is amazing. 

“He is learning healthy habits that will stay with him for life, so worrying about his weight is definitely a thing of the past. He should be really proud of himself. 

“I hope Ross and his passion for healthy eating and Free Food will inspire people of all ages to get involved with Free Food February and make a change of their own. 

“We certainly had a great time celebrating Ross’s achievements and getting Free Food February off to a super start in our group. 

“We had a delicious food taster whereby we enjoyed curries, pizzas, burgers and even kebabs all free on our hunger busting plan.”

The Whiteinch group meets at St Paul’s Church every Thursday at 5.30pm and 7.30pm. Contact Sarahjane on 07793823529 for further information.