The Leaders

The five leaders are: 1) Charlotte O’ Connell (23) from Cavan 2) Gavin Walker (35), Dublin 3) Deirdre Hosford (33) from Cork 4) Greg Starr (36) from Co. Tipperary 5) Monica Percy (44)from Carlow

Charlotte O’Connell

Bailieborough, Co. Cavan

Charlotte (23) comes across as a carefree young girl but inside her weight issues are really starting to get her down. She lives with her boyfriend, Gerald, in a converted garage in her parents' back garden in Bailieborough, Co. Cavan. Having recently completed a degree in Early Childhood Studies, she is currently working as a hotel housekeeper but is hoping to further her studies and become a teacher.

Follow Charlotte's Plan

Gavin Walker

Kill, Co. Kildare

Recently separated, Gavin (35) is starting over but his weight is preventing him from moving on. Originally from Tallaght, he now lives in Kill, Co. Kildare. He has four children, who he sees regularly and are a major source of motivation to him. As a Process Technician, he does shift work, which plays havoc with his diet. Living alone has also added to the problem, as his cooking lacks both imagination and ability. Afraid of ending up unhealthy and alone, Gavin is desperate to take action and start moving on with his life.

Follow Gavin's Plan

Deirdre Hosford

Whitechurch, Co. Cork

Deirdre (33) is adjusting to life as a stay at home mum and looking after her two ‘bundles of energy’, Jack (2) and Cian (2 months). She lives in Whitechurch, Co. Cork with her husband Will, who is a Garda.

Follow Deirdre's Plan

Greg Starr

Aglish, Co Tipperary

As an Operation Transformation group member in 2012, Greg (36) feels ready to take the leap and become a leader this year. He lost two stone as a member of the Aglish Village People Group last year and wants to continue what he has started.

Follow Greg's Plan