A CLEVEDON mum will take on a 12-hour exercise challenge for Children in Need after joining a gym and dropping five dress sizes in just more than a year.

Lesley Maple was spurred into starting exercising after being admitted to hospital in January 2011.

The following June she took part in her first workout session with a personal trainer and has since lost 20kg and dropped five dress sizes.

The mum-of-one of Alexandra Road said: “In January 2011, I was a size 28, self-confessed couch potato, who did as little as possible apart from a part-time job and looking after the family home.

“I was a smoker and had health issues with severe IBS, diverticulitis and a fatty liver, all of which came to a head with me going into hospital with an infection.

“It was the wake-up call I needed and as soon as I felt better and more confident I joined my local gym at Strode Leisure Centre.

“My personal trainer Dave Collins has not only turned out to be the most dedicated and amazing trainer but he has become a fantastic friend.”

On November 16, 43-year-old Lesley will attempt to complete a 12-hour workout with Dave’s support comprising of eight hours of cardio, four hours of weights and additional mat work. She will only be given small breaks of 10-15 minutes to ensure she does not cool down too much.

Lesley, who has been training for the event since January, will also be joined by her 12-year-old son, Christopher, after he finishes school, who will do his own challenge of four-and-a-half hours.

Anyone wishing to sponsor Lesley can do so using forms at the Strode Road centre, Londis and West End Post Office in Old Church Road and Alexandra News in Alexandra Road.