VALENTINE’S Day will be more special this year for super slimmer and new mum Marie McDermott.

Marie, 33, from Wilmslow, was having difficulty becoming pregnant because of her weight.

However, six months after joining a Weight Watchers meeting in Handforth she became pregnant, and her daughter Pippa was born on Valentine’s Day last year.

Since joining the class Marie has lost almost six stone, and this year’s Valentine’s Day celebrations for the McDermotts will be put on hold for a few days to mark Pippa’s first birthday.

“Marie was determined from the start as she wanted a baby so much,” said Marie’s coach at Weight Watchers, June Bailey.

“She did as her doctor advised and joined Weight Watchers. She tried too hard at first by cutting everything pleasurable out.

“Fortunately she told me how she felt and how she was going about the plan, so I helped point her in the right direction and she started to lose weight every week.

“After losing 57 pounds she found out she was pregnant. I was very honoured as I was the first person she told.

“The story is like a fairy tale. Dreams can become a reality if you want it enough.

“She has her prince, she had her dream wedding and now has her own little princess, with Pippa being born on Valentine’s Day.

“Marie comes every week and is such an inspiration to us all.”

Marie attends a meeting at St Benedict’s Church Hall in Handforth on Friday, which is run by June.

Marie joined Weight Watchers in November 2015 after being advised by her doctor she would not be considered for IVF until her BMI lowered to at least 30.

She joined weighing 17 stone 10 pounds, and after losing 57 pounds became pregnant in May 2016.

After Pippa was born Marie rejoined Weight Watchers in May 2017 and reached her goal weight in August. She has lost a further half stone, and from joining Weight Watchers to date has lost five stone 12.5 pounds.

“If it had not been for June I wouldn’t be where I am today,” said Marie.

“I also want to thank my husband Dave and my family for their support. It has not been easy, but if I can do it anyone can.”

Marie did not need IVF treatment, and received fertility medication.