SHARON Grove celebrated Slimming World's 40th anniversary in style anniversary in style by cuddling up to top television and radio presenter Vernon Kay at the company's annual Awards ceremony recently.

The local Slimming World Consultant, who runs weekly groups at Hayward's Primary School, Crediton every Thursday and Trefoil Lodge, Redhills, Exeter, every Monday, met Vernon at Slimming World's glitzy event to celebrate the achievements of the most successful slimmers.

The Radio One DJ, who also presents ITV1 shows Family Fortunes and Beat the Star, joined Slimming World's founder and chairman Margaret Miles-Bramwell to host the event in Birmingham.

He said: "I've met a lot of inspirational people during my career, and Sharon and Margaret are both just that – inspirational.

"It's amazing to think that back in 1969 Margaret had a dream to help people lose weight and now, more than 40 years later, that dream is a reality with thousands of Slimming World Consultants like Sharon helping people to slim and achieve their own dreams every week."

Sharon told the Courier: "Meeting Vernon was a wonderful way to end what's been a fabulous Ruby anniversary year. At my Slimming World group we've had a great time celebrating throughout 2009 and we're going to keep that buzz and excitement going right through 2010, so we can help even more people to lose weight and improve their health.

"This January I'm sure there are thousands of people out there making New Year's Resolutions and pledging to lose weight. I want them to know that at Slimming World they can lose weight while still filling up with 'proper' food like pasta, rice, potatoes, fruit and veg, fish, poultry and lean meat, so there's no need to ever go hungry.

"At my group you will find a room full of friendly and like-minded people ready to welcome you warmly and support you all the way to a new, slimmer you."

For more information or to join call Sharon on 01404 41513.