A MARRIED couple proved team work really does pay off when it comes to the battle of the bulge.

Billy and Chris Arnold, of Plinston Avenue, Latchford, decided to put their vows to the ultimate test and diet together. And it was definitely "for better" when seven months later the determined duo unveiled their svelte new look having shed seven stone between them.

Billy, aged 38, said: "We'd had enough of walking into shops and feeling embarrassed because we couldn't find any clothes to fit.

"We would never pose for pictures unless we were on holiday and even then we would stand as far away as possible to make us look smaller."

Billy and Chris, aged 33, who also work together at Victoria Wine distribution, joined a Weight Watchers club at Warrington Baptist Church in a bid to shift the unwanted pounds.

The calorie counting couple claim their joint effort was the key to their success: "It gave us an extra incentive to keep going.

"We were always encouraging each other. Even the children helped and I think the fact that we were eating more healthily made them more aware of what they were eating."

And they have vowed to keep up the good work - together.

"It has really made a difference to our lives. We don't have to worry about wearing baggy clothes all the time. It has made us more confident and outgoing," said Billy.

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