A STOURBRIDGE super slimmer cuddled up to soap star Adam Thomas as she celebrated reaching the finals of Slimming World’s Woman of the Year 2017 competition.

Claire Wills was one of 10 women to make the finals after losing an impressive 10st 2.5lbs.

The 29-year-old, who slimmed from 21st 11.5lbs to 11st 9lbs, was nominated by fellow slimmers at her Stourbridge weight loss group and went on to triumph at the regional heat and land a place in the final 10.

Although she didn't clinch the top title, Claire did get to meet Adam, who is best known for playing Adam Barton in Emmerdale.

The actor, who also appeared on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! was bowled over by Claire’s transformation.

He said: “I couldn’t believe the change in Claire, she looks incredible and has achieved so much. It’s really humbling to meet someone who has had the courage to turn their life around and do something positive.”

Claire said: “Before I found Slimming World, losing weight always seemed such a struggle. If I wasn’t feeling hungry or deprived, it was the mental battles – like feeling as though I was missing out because I couldn’t socialise with my friends, go for out for a meal or do things with my family.

"After I joined Slimming World it was as though my eyes were completely opened and I found a new way of eating that easily fit around my life.

"The changes I’ve made were so simple – little things like switching white bread for wholemeal and using low-calorie cooking spray instead of lots of oil. I noticed a change on the scales though – in my first week I lost 9lbs. I couldn’t believe it.

“Losing weight has encouraged me to think about how active I am too, so I joined my local gym and I go two or three times a week. I also enjoy running and I now run 5k up to three times a week. Slimming World has completely changed my life.”

Joanne Wassell, who runs the Stourbridge group that Claire attends at The Bonded Warehouse, added: “Claire is a wonderful asset to our group. Her remarkable transformation has inspired so many of her fellow slimmers, so we feel very lucky to have her.

"The change on the outside is plain to see, yet she has changed so much inside, too. These days she’s bursting with confidence and ready to take on whatever challenges life throws at her.

"She’s beautiful inside and out, and we couldn’t be prouder of her."