A BRIDLINGTON fruit shop owner has lost more than 10 stone in weight after making a life-changing decision to take control of his health and wellbeing.
James Stroud, who runs Pro Fruit in Bridlington, has gone from a heaviest weight of 27st 7lb to 16st 13lb, losing an incredible 10st 8lb in just over two years.
His transformation began in earnest in July 2025, when he realised he needed to make a lasting change to his lifestyle.
James said: “Something just decided to click in my brain that if I didn’t do something, I wouldn’t be here by the time I was 40 through severe health problems.”
Having struggled with his weight for years, James admitted that stress and the pressures of work and family life had affected his confidence, with food becoming a source of comfort.
He initially sought support through the Livewell programme, receiving advice on diet and lifestyle changes while tracking his meals.
In December 2025, he also began taking Mounjaro, alongside making significant changes to his eating habits.
He increased his protein intake, cut back on unhealthy food, drank more water and started walking more, while continuing to fit exercise around the demands of running his busy business.
James said losing weight was about much more than medication.
“You have to put the effort in to get the results. I eat better, I eat less, I drink more water, walk more.”
Breaking through the 20-stone barrier proved a significant milestone, helping him feel better about himself and strengthening his determination to continue.
Despite the challenges of long working hours, James has been encouraged by the support of friends, family and customers, many of whom have been amazed by his progress.
He hopes to maintain a weight of between 16 and 17 stone and is looking forward to a skydive in April 2027.
His advice to others is simple: “First bit of advice is talk to someone, which I didn’t really do. You need to want to change for yourself before you feel the need to do it for anyone else.”
James added: “You don’t have to be strict all the time, you just need to be consistent.”
With his confidence returning, he says he has almost got his life back and is determined to enjoy his new lease of life.
To donate: http://www.justgiving.com/page/stroudsub18
