LOOKING for motivation to lose weight in the new year?

A new slimming scheme could be just the answer and will help raise money for charity too.

St Helena Hospice has launched its latest fundraiser, Elms Local Losers, and is looking for people to sign up.

The drive, which is being run by the hospice in association with Elms Personal Fitness, officially launches on January 19.

The 20 people selected to take part will be invited to 12 group training sessions and attend diet and nutritional workshops.

The fundraisers will be weighed every week to track their progress.

Sophie Harvey, hospice events manager, said: “We are really excited for this new fundraiser which we hope to raise at least £10,000 from.

“We’d like to say a big thank you to Elms Personal Fitness and especially its director Mark Stonebank for all their support.”

The final weigh-in will take place on April 13 and the person who has shed the most pounds will win a three month membership at Elms Personal Fitness, a makeover at Caramel Browne hair and beauty salon, and £150 towards a new outfit at Debenhams.

Nathan Wood, who lost seven stone with help from Elms, is helping to launch the campaign as the hospice supported his grandmother last year.

He said: “First-hand experience with weight loss means I know it is not easy, but those who want to do something to help a great cause will also receive support for their own goals, which is essential for both the hospice and an individual losing weight.”

The hospice is asking participants to raise a minimum of £500 in sponsorship.

Visit www.sthelena hospice.org.uk/local losers13 or call 01206 791740 form.