A Belfast woman is celebrating her birthday on Thursday with a new-found confidence after embarking on a weight loss journey.
Louise Crooks, who turns 40 today, avoided attending social events in fear of who would be there, and what they would think of her. Her weight "stole her confidence" and she spent most of her time at home, where she felt at ease.
But when her health began to deteriorate, Louise, who is a mum-of-two, joined a local Slimming World group on the Grosvenor Road - and has shed four pounds off seven stone.
