From heartbreak to hope: Becks’ 6st weight loss journey inspires Old Hill
After shedding an incredible 6st 3lbs, Rebecca Billingham—affectionately known as Becks—has been named Old Hill’s Slimming World Woman of the Year 2025. Her inspiring transformation, both inside and out, has earned her the admiration of her fellow members and a place in the running for the national semi-finals at Slimming World’s Head Office in Derbyshire.
Becks’ journey began in June 2024, following a difficult period in her life. After leaving a controlling relationship and learning that her sister may need a liver transplant, Becks found herself at a crossroads. Determined to become a living donor, she knew she had to reach a healthy BMI. Starting at 17st 10lbs and a BMI of 43.9, she turned to Slimming World for the support and structure she needed.
Now weighing 11st 7lbs with a BMI of 28.2, Becks is not only closer to her goal of helping her sister, but she’s also reclaimed her health and happiness. Living with endometriosis, she’s noticed a dramatic reduction in pain since losing weight. She’s also embraced a more active lifestyle, regularly walking 6.5 miles along the local canal and even completing a 150-mile charity walk in March 2025, raising £300 for mental health charity MIND.
Becks credits Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan for her success. “I’m a real food lover,” she says. “When I found out I could still enjoy meals like spaghetti Bolognese and lasagne, I knew I was in the right place. I couldn’t believe it when I lost 9lbs in my first week—I hadn’t been hungry once!”
The support of her group, led by Consultant Lord Paul Green at The Holy Trinity Church, has been a cornerstone of her journey. “Group is so much more than a weigh-in,” Becks explains. “It’s a place where we plan, share, laugh, and lift each other up. I’ve made lifelong friends.”
Lord Paul is equally proud: “Becks is a true inspiration. Her positivity, determination, and kindness shine through every week. She’s proof that with the right support, anything is possible.”
The Old Hill Slimming World group meets every Monday at 6:00pm and 7:30pm at The Holy Trinity Church, Halesowen Road. New members are always welcome, including those using weight loss medication. For more information, contact Lord Paul on 07970 469908 or visit facebook.com/slimmingworldwithlordpaul or @slimmingworld_lord_paul on Instagram.
