A Haverfordwest woman has come runner up in a national fitness and slimming competition.

Eighteen-year-old Natalie Hawkins yesterday (Wednesday) attended the national finals of Curvette of the Year in London.

Narrowly missing the national title Natalie's hard work was recognised as she was awarded second place.

Natalie, who joined the popular fitness franchise, Curves, two years ago, is also holder of the regional title of Wales’ Curvette of the Year.

She was one of just seven members of Curves in Wales who was picked to compete in the national finals Since joining Curves, Natalie has lost three and a half stone, going from a size 16 to a super svelte 8/10.

Before the national finals she said she was delighted to be picked and excited about her first trip to London which also involved a make over and photo shoot.

“I wanted to do something about my weight but I didn’t want to join the gym because you’ve got all the men on the weights and I didn’t like the environment. So I went to Curves with my mum and started going three times a week.

“It has really helped my confidence, it has definitely made a difference, it is really good. I do feel better when I go, more in shape and feel good about myself,” said Natalie.

Natalie was recently diagnosed with ME and said that the support and encouragement from staff at Curves has helped her carry on improving her fitness.