A black cab driver shed the equivalent of a whole person in weight in only seven months, after joining a diet and exercise programme.

Mark Powell, 40, of Frederick Road, Sutton, decided enough was enough when his weight reached 27st in October last year and lost 9st by dieting, doing power walks and jogging as he got lighter.

Mr Powell said: “I’ve been a taxi driver for 14 years and I think because of my job, sitting around all day and eating the wrong things at the wrong times, my weight got out of control.

“I went on holiday in Florida last year and saw that a lot of people there weresupersized as well, but when I got back I decided it was time to lose all that weight.”

The father-of-three then joined the Sutton Weight Watchers group and started on a points-based diet, where different types of food have a value and the dieter can only eat a certain amount of points per day.

Mr Powell said: “I knew I needed to do something. The challenge when you need to lose weight is finding the right thing that works for you. It’s also important not to starve yourself, but to eat the right amount of food.”

Sons Stephen, 16, George, 12, daughter Rebecca, 10, and wife Michele were pleased with the decision.

He said: “I didn’t want to be that heavy anymore. I wanted to shed weight so I could play football with my boys.”

The cabbie is now continuing with his diet and exercise and hoping to lose a bit more weight and stay healthy.

Those fighting the bulge who would like more information on how to lose weight healthily can contact Jacqui Stoner from Sutton Weight Watchers on 020 8669 7952.

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