TEIGNBRIDGE Slimming World members have raised around £10,000 for Cancer Research UK by donating clothes that no longer fit.

The annual ‘Big Slimming World Clothes Throw, held in groups nationwide, encourages members to donate clothes, shoes and accessories that no longer fit.

And groups in the area have filled close to 420 bags of clothes.

Slimming World Consultant Claire Hannaford, who runs the Dawlish groups, says the event is both a celebration of members’ achievements and a meaningful way to support vital research.

‘It is always a pleasure to see the excitement when the Clothes Throw comes around’, Claire says.

‘People often focus on the number on the scales, but this event highlights the non‑scale victories — changing dress sizes, new confidence, and the belief that those larger clothes are gone for good because members have made healthy changes they can maintain for life’, Claire added.

As well as raising funds, the campaign helps highlight the link between weight and cancer risk.

Being overweight or obese is the second biggest preventable cause of cancer in the UK, linked to 13 different cancer types and responsible for more than one in 20 cases.

Claire adds: ‘Being overweight doesn’t mean someone will definitely develop cancer, but maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of several health conditions.

‘I am proud to host the Clothes Throw to help Cancer Research UK continue its vital work’.

Slimming World has raised more than £30 million for Cancer Research UK through campaigns such as the Clothes Throw and the Race for Life series.

Last year alone, it raised £3.1 million, and they hope to surpass that total this year.

Slimming World groups run throughout Teignbridge.

To join a group, contact Claire on 07882 758048 or visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk