Weight-loss football club named team of the year

A weight-loss football team in Surrey has been named national community club of the year.

Guildford's Man v Fat football club hosts six-a-side games, with extra goal bonuses awarded to teams based on their weight loss.

At the nationwide Man v Fat football awards, the Guildford club picked up the club of the year trophy, celebrating their outstanding impact on men's health and wellbeing.

Mark Smithies, who plays in the team, said: "Being part of such a positive and supportive group does a lot for your confidence and mindset."

The club, funded by Surrey County Council, is a Football Association-accredited programme which helps men with a body mass index of 27.5 or above to lose weight.

Players weigh-in before a 30-minute game, and their weight loss will then be considered alongside goals to determine their place in the league.

"Joining Man v Fat Guildford has honestly made a huge difference for me, I've lost weight, I've got fitter and made great mates along the way," Smithies said.

"I look forward to it each week and it has helped me stay active outside of football too.

"Mentally, it's been a real boost. Being part of such a positive and supportive group does a lot for your confidence and mindset.

"It's more than just football and lifestyle, it's a proper community, and I'm proud to represent Man v Fat Football Guildford."

The Guildford club currently has 68 club players. In the past year, players have lost more than 34 stone (216kg) overall.

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