A SUPER slimmer who lost 10 stone is gearing up for the Virgin Money London Marathon.
Since slimming down from a peak weight of 25 stone, Brendan O'Donnell has become a keen runner.
Having completed several 10Ks and three half marathons, the 32-year-old, from Fridaythorpe, near Driffield, will take on the full 26.2-mile distance for the first time on Sunday, April 24.
Mr O'Donnell is one of 13 Slimming World runners raising funds for Cancer Research UK Slimming World
He said: "I can’t believe how far I’ve come in the past few years and all the incredible changes I’ve made to my lifestyle.
"I’m happier and healthier and by losing weight I’ve reduced my chances of developing a range of health problems including some types of cancer.
"I’ve really found a love for running and I can’t believe I’m now going to be running the big one this year – my dream – the London Marathon!
"I can’t wait for the atmosphere on race day and to cross that finish line.
"Achieving this lifelong ambition would never have been possible before Slimming World. I can’t wait to give something back and raise vital funds for Cancer Research UK."
Mr O'Donnell lost 10 stone as part of the Driffield Slimming World group and reached his target weight, which he has since maintained, at the end of 2014.
That year, he won the national title of Slimming World’s Man of the Year, after inspiring judges and fellow contestants with his transformation.
Since winning the title, he’s fronted national advertising campaigns, appeared on national TV and in Slimming World’s magazine.
Along with his wife he’s also adopted a baby girl, who he often takes out on runs in her buggy.
Mr O'Donnell had weight problems for most of his life, which escalated in adulthood.
He said: “I was nicknamed ‘Big Bee’ as a child and struggled with my weight for as long as I can remember – often hiding behind making jokes about my size.
"I had never really exercised, and hated even the thought of it.
"At school, during cross country, I would hide in the woods rather than take part. Even as an adult the most activity I did was a round of golf, and I struggled to tie my shoelaces."
After losing some weight, he was told about a couch to 5k running podcast and never looked back.
To sponsor Mr O'Donnell's Slimming World team, visit https://www.justgiving.com/SWMarathonTeam2016.
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