A 25-year-old Aviva worker has revealed how his life has changed after losing eight stone in weight in under a year.

Josh Beal, from Norwich, started his weight-loss journey at 20st 7lbs and he now currently weighs 12st 7lbs - claiming the hardest challenge was giving up beer. 

"I was so anxious when leaving the house, constantly worrying how I looked," he said. "Then a friend sent me a photo from their wedding and it was a real eye-opener.

"I did not recognise myself and hated the way I looked.

"I also felt constantly tired and was worn out by simple tasks like getting dressed or walking up the stairs.

"My mental health was in tatters, so much so I never wanted to leave the house." 

Eastern Daily Press: Josh Beal, 25, from Norwich, started his weight-loss journey at 20 stone 7 and currently weighs 12 stone 7, transforming his mental and physical helpJosh Beal, 25, from Norwich, started his weight-loss journey at 20 stone 7 and currently weighs 12 stone 7, transforming his mental and physical help (Image: Josh Beal)

Mr Beal discovered a whole new pattern of eating, enjoying foods he would never have thought he liked.

He dropped four shirt sizes and has gone from a 40-inch waist to a 32-inch waist.

This year he also completed a half-marathon hike in aid of Macmillan and started playing tennis.

He said: "The biggest challenge has been alcohol as I used to drink a lot of beer, I have cut this out completely.

"I feel like I'm a different person now for the better.

"I can go for long walks without getting tired and my confidence has skyrocketed, I used to get very hot doing normal things which is now a thing of the past."

Mr Beal attended a Slimming World group using the Norfolk County Council referral scheme. 

His consultant Rebecca Jones added: "Looking at Josh now versus when he first walked through the door he is unrecognisable in both physique and self-confidence."