Renfrewshire Dad Loses 12 Stone, Inspires Community Weight Loss

A father from Renfrewshire has dramatically transformed his life by losing over 12 stone, becoming an inspiration to others in his community. Douglas Clark, who previously weighed 26 stone 11 pounds, is now leading a local group that has collectively shed nearly 60 stone in just eight months. This remarkable journey has not only changed his physical appearance but has also significantly boosted his confidence and quality of life.

At 48 years old, Clark has swapped his four XL T-shirts for medium sizes. He has completed his first half marathon and recently set a new personal best at a local parkrun, finishing in 27 minutes 15 seconds. Reflecting on his transformation, he expressed, “I used to avoid even short walks and now I’m planning a marathon. But the real transformation isn’t just physical — it’s about confidence, energy, and believing in myself again.” His goal is to inspire others to reach their potential and achieve goals they once thought impossible.

Community Impact and Personal Successes

The Glenburn Slimming World group, which launched in January, has become a source of support for its members. Among them, David Maxwell has lost over six stone in six months and aims to continue his weight loss journey. “I’ve been going to what I call my family reunion every Thursday for six months,” he shared. “I’ve received love, laughs, friendship, and fantastic support from these beautiful new friends of mine in class. Their support has been priceless in my battle.”

Another member, Jackie, joined Slimming World to manage her type 2 diabetes. She has received life-changing news that her latest blood tests are now in the normal range. “I never thought I’d see the day when my results looked this good,” she stated, highlighting the program’s positive effects on her health.

Douglas’s own father, Tom Clark, joined the group at the age of 80 to support his son. The ‘Body Magic’ program has helped him lose over two stone, allowing him to rediscover cycling and rebuild his life after the loss of his wife, Elizabeth, in 2020. Tom reflected, “She would be so proud if she could see Douglas in action with his group and see the community he has built.”

Building a Supportive Community

Douglas emphasizes that Slimming World is about much more than just weight loss. “Our mantra is ‘Choose Success’,” he stated. “It’s about choosing to be kind to yourself, to believe you can change, and to take small, manageable steps towards the life you want.” This philosophy fosters a sense of community within the Glenburn group, where members engage in midweek walks and participate in their first parkruns, forming friendships and changing lives.

“Seeing people walk in nervous and leave smiling and confident is the best feeling,” Douglas remarked. “It’s why I do what I do.” The Glenburn Slimming World group meets every Thursday at 7 PM at St Peter’s Men’s Club on Braehead Road, Glenburn.

As Douglas continues his journey towards his first full marathon, scheduled for 2026, he remains committed to uplifting those around him, proving that with determination and the right support, significant change is achievable.