THIS week we spoke to Tina Sheppard, a consultant at Slimming World, in Chase Road, Corringham

Q: What do you love about Thurrock?

A: It is a great community and great for shopping. I prefer to shop at the local businesses in Corringham as I believe in supporting them. You also have free parking.

Q: What has kept you here?

A: I moved to Thurrock after I married. My children go to school here, I work here and we have built our family life here.

Q: How do you see the future for Slimming World here?

A: I think it has a really bright future in Thurrock. Altogether, we have 16 groups in the borough.

The current rates of obesity are quite high and our aim is to help people lose weight but also feel more positive.

Q: How do you think other parts of Essex see Thurrock?

A: As a great community with great shopping because of Lakeside.

Q: What advice would you give to people wanting to set up their own Slimming World group?

A: A person needs to be a member first, and then you can work your way up. It’s important to be confident and be able to communicate well. It’s great because all of the consultants started off as members.

Q: What made you start your business here?

A: I started my group in Grays and then I moved to Corringham.

I think it’s great to live and work in my own community.

I’ve got to know a lot more people, you find out more about the people you live with and it’s a good way to build relationships.

We meet twice a week, on Wednesdays at 5.30pm and Thursdays at 9.30am.

Q: What involvement with the community does Slimming World have?

A: Slimming World Thurrock is very much involved in the local community. Just last month, we held a race for life charity event for cancer research. It was organised by Susan Simpson, who runs groups in Chadwell, South Ockendon and Thurrock. We came together and about 160 of us took part in the fun family event. We raised at least £1,000.

Q: What is your favourite bit about the Gazette?

A: I really enjoy reading about what is happening in the area and that’s what the Gazette is all about.

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