Piling on the positives helps with shedding the unwanted pounds

Speak to your GP. You may be eligible for an exercise referral scheme and they can also advise on support available in your area.

Ditch the fad diet. In the long term they can be difficult to follow and set you up for failure. Experts advise following a sensible balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, but reducing your calorie intake, portion sizes, junk food and fizzy drinks.

Get moving. Regular exercise is crucial, even if a short walk is all you can manage at first. Stick at it and the rewards will follow.

Keep at it. Don’t give up following the first bad day. It’s not about instant results. Focus instead on achieving long term change.

For more information about National Obesity Awareness week go to www.noaw2014.org.uk