DARTS legend Colin Lloyd has admitted feeling on top of the world after shedding two stone in weight.

The former world number one has tumbled from 18st 7lb at the beginning of lockdown to just over 16st after joining Colchester Fitness Centre.

Diabetic Lloyd, nicknamed Jaws, has also been told he no longer needs to take insulin - something he has been dependent on for more than a decade.

"I feel amazing and on top of the world," said Colchester-based Lloyd.

"I've lost so much weight, come off the insulin and made new friends.

"The guys at Colchester Fitness Centre have been brilliant since I started doing bootcamps with them in July.

"It's helped me physically but also in terms of my mental health and wellbeing.

"We work hard but have great banter and it's been an opportunity to meet new people in a safe environment, as all the classes are outside and socially distanced."

Halstead Gazette:

Lloyd (pictured above in his prime), who has been diabetic since 2008, enjoyed a glittering career, winning the 2004 World Grand Prix and 2005 World Matchplay events, in addition to more than two dozen Professional Darts Corporation titles.

He has been a regular on the exhibition circuit in recent years.

Colchester Fitness Centre director Mark Maher says the darts icon is an inspiration to others.

"Colin's come so far and this is exactly why we wanted to set up our centre - to try and make a difference in people's lives," he said.

"He goes about his business, gets on with it and focuses just like he did when he was playing darts.

"His achievements, and those of others, makes it all worthwhile."

For more details, see www.colchesterfitness.com