Man of the Year Richard Whitehead sheds HALF his body weight with Slimming World
Super slimmer Richard Whitehead is only half the man he used to be.
And he couldn't be prouder.
The 55-year-old has shed more than half his body weight after losing an incredible 12st 9lb - dropping from 24st to just 11st 7llb.
Fellow Slimming World members at Birstall Community Centre were so impressed they have voted him their Man of the Year 2026 - recognising his dedication, commitment, and the positive impact he's made on the community.
Today he told how curry, pasta and homemade ‘fakeaways’ plus long walks helped to shape his incredible transformation.
He joined his local Tuesday Slimming World group at Gomersal Public Hall and moved to the Wednesday morning group in Birstall Community Centre, for flexibility.
Richard, who lives in Birkenshaw, says of his weight loss: “I knew something had to change. I didn’t have the energy I wanted and my confidence had really taken a hit. From day one, what stood out was the people.
“My Consultant and all the group members were so welcoming and there was no judgement at all. It’s not just about losing weight, it’s about feeling part of something. That support has made all the difference for me.”
Richard revealed how Slimming World helped. He said: “ I think people assume you have to cut everything out, but that’s not the case. I’ve still been enjoying proper meals, things like pasta, curry and fakeaways I make myself.
"Slimming World has helped me to have a better understanding of nutrition and my relationship with food. That’s meant I make smarter choices now and it’s something I’ve been able to stick to because it fits around my real life.”
He says the group environment has also been key to his success. Richard said: “The weekly sessions keep you grounded and motivated. You celebrate together, support each other if things don’t go to plan, and share ideas that really work. It’s that sense of not being alone that’s carried me through.”
Richard is divorced, with a grown up daughter. He retired in early 2024 after working as Operations Director and site leader for a large manufacturing company in Redditch.
Attending Slimming World his confidence grew and so did his activity levels.
He said: “My Consultant really encouraged me to take things at my own pace following Slimming World's tailorable activity program. I got started with walking at first. It was just moving a bit more day-to-day, encouraged by sharing my wins I gradually built up. Now I walk 10 kilometers a day and I genuinely look forward to it. It’s not something I ever thought I’d say.”
Slimming World Consultant Yvonne Carter, who runs the Birstall Community Centre group, said: “Richard is such a fantastic example of what can be achieved with the right mindset and support.
"He’s committed, consistent and always there with a kind word or encouragement for others. What makes his journey so special is how much he’s embraced being part of the group. He’s not only changed his own life, but he’s helped lift others along the way too.”Yvonne added: “Our group is a real community.
“There’s a lot of laughter, honesty and mutual support, and Richard embodies all of that. He’s incredibly deserving of this recognition he is an inspiration to all the other members”
* If you’ve been inspired by Richard’s story and would like to start your own journey, the Birstall Community Centre Slimming World group meets every Wednesday at 9.30am,11am,12.30pm,3.30pm,5.30pm and 7pm, or Tuesday 5.30pm & 7pm at Gomersal Public Hall.
For more information, contact Yvonne on 07727137854
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