Tipton man celebrates incredible 13st weight loss after life-changing journey

A Tipton man who lost more than 13 stone has been celebrating a life-changing transformation after being selected as a finalist in Slimming World’s 2026 Man of the Year competition.

Richard Perry, 46, was chosen from thousands of men across the UK and Ireland to attend the semi-finals at Slimming World’s Derbyshire head office, where he shared his weight-loss journey with fellow finalists.

Richard, who has lost an incredible 13st 4.5lb, said his weight had once left him feeling defeated and unable to enjoy the things he loved, including football.

He said taking the first step and joining his local Slimming World group was a turning point.

“Walking into my local Slimming World group was a big step for me, but the welcome I got from my Consultant Tracey and the group members made all the difference,” he said. “There was no judgement, just real support from people who understood exactly how I felt.”

Through Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan and the weekly support of his group, Richard learned how to make changes to his eating habits while still enjoying his favourite meals.

He said: “The best thing was realising I could still enjoy proper meals like full-English breakfasts, roast dinners, homemade curries and chilli con carne, while losing weight. I never felt restricted, which made it much easier to stick with it.”

Richard also embraced becoming more active, starting with short walks before progressing to swimming, cycling, hiking and running.

Now more than 13 stone lighter, he says the change has transformed his confidence and allowed him to enjoy life in a way he previously struggled to.

A keen football fan, Richard said watching the World Cup this year has been a special experience.

He added: “I can wear a football shirt without feeling self-conscious – I used to wear a size 4XL and now I can comfortably wear a medium. Those small changes make such a big difference to your life.”

His Slimming World Consultant Tracey Richardson, who runs the Tipton group, said she was proud of Richard’s achievement.

She said: “Richard has shown that with the right support, the right food and the right mindset, anything is possible. Slimming World is all about community and no one has to do it alone.”

Richard hopes his story will encourage others who may be struggling with their weight to take the first step.

“If someone’s reading this and feeling how I used to feel, I’d say take that first step,” he said. “Finding my Slimming World group and being with like-minded people with absolutely no judgement has been life-changing.”

The Tipton Slimming World group, led by Tracey, meets every Thursday and Saturday at St John’s Church Hall, Tipton.