A dream came true for two Watford slimmers when they met TV heartthrob John Barrowman at a glitzy awards ceremony.

Slimming World consultants Sue Petley and Beth Maclure, who run weekly groups in Watford, celebrated their weight loss with slimmers from around the country at the ceremony in Birmingham.

The ladies were over the moon when John, best known as Captain Jack on Torchwood and a firm favourite on TV talent shows ‘Any Dream Will Do’ and ‘How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?’, called them ‘an inspiration' after posing for a picture.

John said: “Seeing people’s dreams come true is an incredible thing and I’ve had the privilege of doing that through my TV career. Sue and Beth are special because they are helping people to achieve their dreams every week. It really is a pleasure to meet them.”

Having shed a successful seven stone between them Sue, who runs her group in North Watford, said she is feeling positive about the year ahead.

The 53-year-old consultant of St Albans Road said: “Meeting John was an amazing experience. I couldn’t believe that he was even more gorgeous in real life but I’ll be treasuring our photograph together.

“I can’t wait to get back to my group and help more people to lose weight and improve their health. The message I’m giving people this New Year is that with the support of like-minded people anything is possible.

"I know times are tough financially but looking after your health and wellbeing is a priority and, in fact, members of my group tell me they’re spending less on food now than they ever were before – so they’re winning all round!”

The pair hold slimming world groups at The West Watford Free Church in Tolpits Lane, on Mondays at 5:30pm and 7:00pm and also at St Helens Catholic Church Hall in the Harebreaks on Thursdays at 6pm.

For more information please call Sue on 01895 823312 or Beth on O7929004615