Sheffield singer sheds 9st after getting stuck on fairground ride

Mark Marsden said losing weight had "transformed" his life

A singer from Sheffield who lost 9st (57kg) has said he decided to make the change after he was unable to fit on a fairground ride with his children.

Mark Marsden, 31, vowed "never to feel like that again" after three staff failed to push down the safety bar.

Mr Marsden, who previously weighed 23st (146kg), said his confidence on stage had increased dramatically, adding weight loss had "transformed his life".

He told the BBC: "I wish I had done it 10 years ago."

He said he felt people "only saw my weight rather than hearing my voice".

Mr Marsden lost the weight after joining Slimming World in November 2021, and won its Mr Sleek competition.

Mr Marsden said he used to struggle to get out of bed

When he was at his heaviest, with a 48in (122cm) waistline, he suffered back, leg and foot pain and "struggled to get up in the morning".

Mr Marsden said: "Everything was so much effort, so I was always late and even that was down to my weight."

As a performer he felt self-conscious and was constantly "fidgeting and adjusting his clothes" - but now he is slimmer, he enjoys it so much more.

Dad-of-two Mr Marsden, who improved his diet and took up weight lifting, said: "Music is something I'm passionate about so I now feel ready to chase my dreams and sing as much as I can.

"The only problem is it feels so good to walk into a shop and know something will fit me that I end up buying a new suit before every show!"

He sings at weddings, clubs, pubs and even care homes for a discounted price, to "give something back".

Mr Marsden said he was now more confident on stage

The former car body repairer also recently took over a cafe in Rotherham, ironically called Fat Tony's.

He plans to serve "guilt-free" treats with a special menu designed for those struggling with weight loss.

"The only way is up and I hope I can inspire others," he said.