THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised for charity through an initiative where members of slimming clubs are encouraged to donate their unused clothes.

Big Slimming World Clothes Throw, where Colchester members donated the unwanted clothes they have slimmed out of, saw more than 300 bags collected.   

The initiative aims to raise awareness of how keeping a healthy weight can reduce the risk of developing some types of cancer.

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Each filled bag is worth about £25 to the charity and since 2013, the partnership between Cancer Research UK and the slimming organisation has generated more than £18 million.

Alice Turburville, Stanway Rover’s Slimming World consultant and team developer said: "I look forward to the Big Slimming World Clothes Throw event as it raises money for a charity that is very close to so many people’s hearts whilst giving our members a chance to celebrate how far they’ve come."

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The mayor of Colchester City Council, Tim Young, came along to help load the bags into the Cancer Research UK’s lorries, along with the team of consultants in Colchester and some of their members. 

Mr Young said: "It’s a really excellent way to raise money for a particularly good cause."

For more information about Slimming World and how to join them, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.