MEMBERS of a Fenland slimming club who put on weight over Christmas were given an extra incentive to shed the pounds – they had to pay fines. The fines were voluntary contributions to the NSPCC. Kathy Bateman, leader of March and Chatteris Weight Watchers

MEMBERS of a Fenland slimming club who put on weight over Christmas were given an extra incentive to shed the pounds - they had to pay fines.

The fines were voluntary contributions to the NSPCC.

Kathy Bateman, leader of March and Chatteris Weight Watchers clubs, said she organises the fines because there are many British children who do not have a happy Christmas.

The average weight gain for members this year was 3lb, with about 90 per cent of them putting on weight over the Christmas period.

"They still did well though as most people that do not come to Weight Watchers classes put on about 7lb," said Mrs Bateman. "There is just so much pressure to eat at Christmas, with people getting out the mince pies and other treats, and people feel obliged to eat so they do not offend.

"Supermarkets are also good at putting the stuff in their hampers and on the shelves, and people think they ought to have those things as visitors would want them."

But members who did not put on weight still made a contribution and helped Mrs Bateman raise about £115 for the NSPCC.