Three slimming groups have been raising money to help fund a life-changing operation for a Monmouth girl.

The two Slimming World groups that meet at the Riverside Hotel on Wednesdays and the group meeting at Monmouth Priory on Tuesdays raised about £800 for Chase Vaughan between them.

Chase has cerebral palsy and, along with mum Helen Morgan, is trying to raise the £40,000 needed for a procedure which will drastically help her mobility – about £35,000 has been raised so far.

Slimming World members took part in a six-week 'slimathon' and and both groups chose Chase as their charity.

Lisa, Nicholls, who runs the Wednesday evening session, said: "What's been liberating for all the members who took part in the slimathon is the fact that they have contributed to such a worthy cause.

"When the class presented Chase with the cheque it was with heartfelt emotion and delight.

"Members join class to lose weight; Chase was born with her condition so all the members who between them lost more than 15 stone in six weeks were motivated and humbled to be contributing to such a precious little girl as Chase and we all wish the family well in their own journey."

Claire Shields, who runs the Tuesday night group, said: "It is very strange that all three groups chose Chase as their favorite charity.

"Over the six weeks my group lost a total of 22 stone, which is amazing.

"I'm so proud of what the members in the group have achieved.

"Supporting a worthwhile cause like Chase has given everyone a special focus and real commitment to their weight loss goals.

"For many members, being sponsored has been a great way to kick start their weight loss and for others it's been a boost to help them stay on track.

"At Slimming World we pride ourselves on the care and support we give each other to lose weight.

"Six weeks doesn't sound like a long time, but in that period I've seen so many changes, people losing weight, their confidence increasing and feeling happier and healthier than ever.

"Taking part in Slim for Good has been a great opportunity to put something back into the local community, and make a real difference to people's weight and health at the same time.

"We're delighted to have been able to help Chase as she is a very special little girl and it was lovely to meet her. We hope that our donations make a difference and we hope more people will come along to find out more about how they can change their life too."

If you wish to donate to 'A Big Wish for Chase' visit http://www.justgiving.com/Helen-Morgan8">http://www.justgiving.com/Helen-Morgan8