Competitive dieting started in Tolworth this week, as slimmers were offered a cash prize to boost their motivation.

The community weight loss challenge will award prizes to the slimmers who drop the biggest body weight percentage, as well as fining people who gain the pounds.

It started with a handful of slimmers on Monday, June 22, at Our Lady Immaculate Church, Ewell Road, and if 25 people get on board, there will be a £200 first prize.

Organiser Nevil Kapadia insisted the financial incentive attracted people but was not their only motivation.

The father-of-two said he would dissuade people from starving themselves for the cash prize, although extreme dieters will not be ruled out.

He said: “People get quite competitive. They come along saying ‘I was 1 per cent behind the leader, I’m going to really try for next week.”

The 12 week course costs £35. For details, call Mr Kapadia on 020 8432 9427.

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