A HAMPSHIRE company director is trying to get more people to take a turn at salsa lessons in a bid to beat obesity.

Karen Blake, 46, director of gas, plumbing and electrical firm PA Blake Ltd, from New Milton, has lost three stone since taking up the dance classes.

Four years ago the mum of two – pictured today and, also, before her weight loss, weighed 13 stone and was desperate to lose weight and drop down from her size 16 dress-size.

“I joined the gym so many times, but wasted so much money,” said Karen.

Now weighing 10 stone and a size 10, Karen said she knows how hard it is to start losing weight but after her first salsa class, she found it easy to keep going.

“I was lacking in confidence with my body shape, felt frumpy, horrible, and very self-conscious,” she said.

“Now I am addicted, because with salsa, there is always more you can learn.”

Karen is now urging more people to try out the dance to lose weight and assists with a weekly Sunday night salsa class at Banister Park Bowling Club.

For more information visit justdance.net or call Karen on 07986 154759.