By John Connell

Published at 11:27, Wednesday, 12 September 2012

A STUDENT who has lost five stone to raise more than £600 for charity feels on top of the world.

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Matthew Poynton, 20, of Scawfell Avenue, Moorclose, Workington, weighed nearly 18 stones when he started a sponsored weight loss programme at Intrim Fitness Centre a year ago.

But the 5ft 5ins student now weights exactly 13 stones and has packed on lean muscle in place of fat.

Alan Moore, who runs the gym said: “When he first came in and sat on that chair he looked like a little fat seal pup ready to go into the sea to survive.

“But now he has taken control of his own destiny rather than leaving it to chance.

“He has intensified his concentration levels and is able to study with more vigour.

“He really feels on top of the world.”

Through a combination of hard work and sensible eating he has transformed his body, raising hundreds of pounds for Macmillan Cancer Support in the process.

Alan has given £1 for every pound he lost as well supervising his fitness regime.

The rest of the money came through donations and sponsorship from friends, family and fellow gym-goers.

Matthew said: “I have never been one to buckle down to do essays but I have been a lot more punctual since starting this.

“It gives you the attitude to drive towards something.

“At first it was hard and you have to force yourself to go to the gym but once you have been doing it for a month you start feeling the benefit and it becomes easier.”

Alan also insists that Matthew has actually lost more body fat than the five-stone weight loss.

“He has put on muscle which is heavier than fat,” he said.

Matthew will go on to study English literature and creative writing at the University of Cumbria’s Lancaster campus and is looking forward to his latest challenge.

Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk