SWAPPING the sofa for the gym and taking on a college course helped a Longford family pick up an award for improving their lifestyles.


The Williams family came out top in the Golden Gates Housing Trust (GGHT) Challenge4Change Project which encouraged families to try something new to boost their lifestyle individually and as a group.


They were crowned at a grand final at the LiveWire Orford Park Jubilee Hub last Tuesday after an X Factor style online poll which included videos charting the Williams’ development from last September.


Mum and dad Michael and Charlotte led the way with him losing weight and taking up more exercise while tackling a training course has meant Charlotte is now preparing to go to Liverpool Hope University to study to become a primary school teacher.


She will become the first member of her family to go to university when the course starts in September.


And the family as a whole started eating healthier, managing budgets better and spending more time together.


Michael said: “We are over the moon and thrilled to have won. Challenge4Change truly has inspired us to change our lives.


“We would like to thank everyone involved in the project and the other families in making the whole experience unforgettable.”


They won £500 to spend on a holiday of their choice.