SHARING is a big part of any marriage, but Gary and Carol Bulpitt have an extra reason to celebrate after taking a huge weight off both their shoulders.

The husband and wife have shed 8st 9.5lb between them since joining their Slimming World group in Weston, Southampton.

They shed the pounds in just one year and were nominated for the weight loss organisation’s Couple of the Year 2013 award.

Sadly the pair, who live in Netley Abbey and tied the knot 34 years ago, failed to tip the scales in the judge’s favour but now have a new lease of life.

Carol, 53, has slimmed down from 10st 10lb to 8st 2lb – lighter than their combined weight loss. The public sector worker said: “We were delighted to be part of the finals, but we feel like we’ve already won the biggest prize we could wish for because losing weight has completely changed our lives.

“I’ve always loved him no matter what he weighs, but he’s back to the size of the man I married and he has extended his life. I’m a little smaller than when we married.”

‘Looking good’ Gary, 55, an analyst programmer, has dropped from 19st 7lb to 13st 5.5lb since being referred to the group by doctors at Blackthorn Health Centre.

His diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol levels have improved dramatically and he added: “I can’t believe the change it has made – it reminds me of my younger days!”

“I’ve tried other diets in the past but none satisfied me, but Slimming World definitely works and by doing it as a couple we have been able to help each other.

“I always thought she looked good but she looks stunning now.”

Their two grown-up children Matthew, 27, and Emma, 26, have spurred them on and their chocolate Labrador Cookie has also lost 6lb because their fitness regime involves taking him for longer walks.

They put their success down to eating extra-lean meat, using lowcalorie cooking spray instead of oil or butter and cooking more homemade meals instead of foods cooked in high calorie sauces.

Gary also uses an exercise bike and rowing machine at home.