A mother-of-two has lost more than seven stones and dropped five dress sizes after embracing exercise classes at her local leisure centre.

Helen Farndale, a housing manager from Northallerton, attributes much of her transformation to the Aquafit sessions at Bedale Leisure Centre.

The 41-year-old, who at her heaviest weighed more than 20 stones, began her weight loss journey last year after noticing that everyday tasks were becoming increasingly difficult.

Mrs Farndale said she would “get tired easily” and be “out of breath” just going up the stairs.

“I was conscious that I wasn’t getting any younger and needed to take action before suffering any health problems so decided I wanted to start exercising.

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“I had done Aquafit many years ago at Bedale Leisure Centre, so I was delighted to find out the classes were still available there,” she said.

Mrs Farndale, who now weighs less than 13-and-a-half stones, attends sessions at the centre around four times a week. She said they have helped her get her confidence back.

“My family and friends are so proud of me. I have more energy, feel and look better, and can now shop in normal stores. Plus, I have made £1,000 selling my old clothes online,” she added.

Aquafit is one of many fitness classes on offer at leisure centres across the county as part of North Yorkshire Council’s new Active North Yorkshire, which aims to encourage more people to be become active to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for culture, arts, and housing, Cllr Simon Myers, said: “Helen’s remarkable achievements demonstrate the positive impact being more active can have on people’s lives.

“Our goal is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthier, more active life, through our commitment to providing activities and facilities that are accessible to all regardless of fitness levels or ability.”

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Aquafit sessions, conducted in the shallow end of the pool, do not require class members to be able to swim. The water supports balance, making workouts, which are done to music, more manageable.

Zoe Challoner, an instructor at Bedale Leisure Centre, says Aquafit is suitable for everyone.

“It is perfect for all abilities, taking pressure off joints, bones and muscles. It’s an amazing full-body workout and great for the heart, not to mention mental health and general wellbeing. Plus, it's a great place to make new friends,” she said.