LYNDA Leadbetter did not let lockdown stop her from helping people lose weight, earning her a prestigious British Empire Medal (BEM).

Lynda, who lives in Winsford, runs Beeweighed, a weight loss support group with more than 200 members, which offers a weekly weigh-in and a group support meeting.

This is irrespective of what diet plan people choose to follow.

Lynda explained: “I was a Weight Watchers leader for 17 years but I quit three years ago and set up on my own.

“Before lockdown I had about eight meetings and then obviously lockdown happened so I carried on with Zoom, along with a book club.

“All the members that attended the Zoom meetings stayed the same weight, lost weight or only gained a slight bit of weight.”

Despite working full time herself, Lynda continued to put on the meetings in the evening free of charge, attracting people from across the country.

Her planned media has supported many people who were going through depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other dilemmas.

Her virtual book club also prioritised her members’ field of interest during a difficult period of time.

Her passion inspired other people, and one of her employees did not charge her anything for the marketing of the business during lockdown.

Thanks to her dedication, Lynda received her BEM at an award ceremony at Tatton Hall and will attend the royal garden party at Buckingham Palace next year.

“I don’t know who nominated me, but apparently it could be several people,” she said.

“I received my award at the beginning of the month.

“Receiving the award I felt like I didn’t really deserve it – I was doing it all because I love helping people lose weight.

“I just wanted to to keep everyone focused throughout lockdown.”

Beeweighed has sessions in Northwich, Denton and Longsight.

Having lost more than four stone herself, Lynda says she ‘totally understands’ the ups and downs of losing weight.

To find out more, visit beeweighed.co.uk or facebook.com/beeweighedweightlosssupportgroup.