A DETERMINED Clydebank pensioner says she is proof that significant weight loss can be achieved, even after the loss of a loved one.

Rose Campbell, 73, went from 13 stone 3lbs to 9st 9lbs during her battle to shed the pounds that started at a size 22.

She originally wanted to lose weight to ensure she could care for her husband of 45 years, Colin, who passed away last March.

Rose said: “Being my husband Colin’s carer, I had to make sure that I looked after myself. My weight was slowly creeping up and I was starting to get sore joints, hips and knees.

“If my weight gain continued then I would not be able to look after him and give him the care he needed.

“Colin was older than me. His health was starting to deteriorate and I also had two dogs so my thought was, ‘If anything happens to me, who will look after them?’

“I made the decision to join WW [formerly Weight Watchers] and wellness coach Elaine White just made me feel so welcome and part of the group.

“Her motivation and understanding just made my journey so much easier.”

Colin, a former taxi driver, sadly passed away last year, aged 77.

Rose had joined a walking club and was walking up to 20 miles a week.

“My best friend was gone but I decided to keep up this healthy lifestyle I had found,” she added. “I keep myself very busy and active and now also attend an aqua fitness class and love to play bowls all summer long.

“I made a bucket list in 2004 and on it was the reward of a flying lesson.

“I finally got to achieve my dream last September and it felt amazing – and I’m so glad I was feeling confident enough to do it.

“My eating has also improved. I used to eat lots of junk including biscuits and chocolate, and that has now been replaced with fresh fruit, homemade soup, chicken, fish and vegetables.

“The weight loss took me just over a year-and-a-half but it has been the best thing I have ever done.

“I’m proof there’s life after the loss of a loved one even if you are on the mature side. If you want to do it, then you can.”