Kingston weight loss services are the best value for taxpayers anywhere in the UK – 33 times more efficient than the national average.

Data published by the Taxpayers’ Alliance with the aim of showing the wastefulness of local authority spending revealed it cost just £27 for each person to lose weight under the council’s weight loss schemes.

Roger from Surbiton said: "My doctor suggested 12-weeks at Slimming World to try to avoid increasing my Diabetes medication. It worked. Following the plan, I lost 1.5 stones and my sugar level dropped."

The council spends £8,150 on the services, and of the 338 people who have so far used them 297 of them have lost weight – just £27 per person helped.

The average cost is £912 per person.

Councillor Cathy Robert, portfolio holder for health, said: "We work with partners like GPs, voluntary and community groups and local healthcare providers to get the best outcomes for people who live or work in the borough.

"Around 90 per cent of people who engage with our services lose weight, which is a fantastic result and it's pleasing to learn that Kingston compares favourably to other local authorities.”

Anyone over 16 who lives or works in Kingston, with a BMI of 28 or above (or 25 with increased risk of weight-related conditions) can join a 12-week course for free.

Cllr Robert said: "By commissioning leading providers such as Slimming World and WeightWatchers to deliver weight-loss and healthy eating programmes on our behalf, we are improving the quality and range of obesity services available across the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames.

"From free Slimming World classes to family eating plans, the council can help you if you want to lead a more active or healthy lifestyle."

Anyone who wants information about programmes available to children and families about physical activity and healthy eating can call 0208 547 6815 or email healthy.lifestyles@kingston.gov.uk.