A WOMAN who lost eight stone in two years made it to the semi-finals of a national slimming competition.

Amanda Dinnage, of Crowborough, was congratulated on her achievement by actor Will Mellor – known for roles in Hollyoaks, Casualty, Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps and Broadchurch – as she reached the penultimate stage of the weight loss contest.

She is one of 45 women in the country who took part in the Slimming World’s Woman of the Year competition. She narrowly missed the finals after success at regional heats but was praised for her efforts by Mr Mellor at the group’s head office.

Mrs Dinnage, a member of the Crowborough Slimming World group, initially weighed 19st 11lbs and is now 11st, 8.5lbs.

Group leader Jo Thomas said she was proud of Mrs Dinnage.

She said: “Amanda hasn’t only changed how she looks, she’s a different woman on the inside too. She’s blossomed into a happy, confident woman and it’s been a pleasure to share in her journey. She’s already such an inspiration to so many of us in the Crowborough group and I hope she’ll inspire even more people now.”

Mr Mellor said he was amazed by Mrs Dinnage’s weight loss.

He said: “What she’s achieved is so inspirational, she’s completely changed her life – and her family’s life – and she looks great.”