A COWLERSLEY woman has been named a Community Champion for her work with obese adults and children.

Patricia Sadio, of Richmond Court, has developed dance and education programmes for women with weight problems and has also set up a charity for overweight children.

A £2,000 grant from the Government's Education and Skills Department helped her to develop the 10-week courses, which have helped more than 25 women.

Ms Sadio, 42, said: "The award came as a complete surprise. I don't know who nominated me, but what is really nice is that all the women involved have stayed in touch."

She will be among 22 people from across Yorkshire and Humberside who will be honoured at a ceremony at York's Moat House Hotel on Saturday.

All are being honoured for their success in "making a little go a long way" and for their outstanding contributions to their community.

Ms Sadio, who has always battled with her own weight problems, was an accountant for 15 years before training as a counsellor.

She gave up paid work around 18 months ago to concentrate on obesity in adults and children.

Cobwebs, the charity for obese children, runs sessions during term time at the National Children's Centre, New North Parade, Huddersfield.

It is currently taking part in research into weight and children.

Ms Sadio has set up a counselling and education service, Cody UK (Combating Obesity with Dignity).

Contact her at www.combatingobesity@yahoo.co.uk or phone 01484 483048.