Jude Hardwick, of Dag Lane, North Kilworth, hopes to raise money for the Mercy Ships project, which sees volunteer medical staff provide much-needed services to third world countries.

Mrs Hardwick gained weight four years ago after suffering from Guillain Barre syndrome, which is a rare condition that inflames the nervous system.

The 63-year-old, who works at the town's Cottage Hospital as an X-ray operator, was on life-support for over a month at Leicester General Hospital.

She said: "It's a condition similar to MS but it comes on suddenly rather than gradually. I was paralysed and on life-support. When I came out of hospital after two months I couldn't walk properly for a while and I gained weight."

Mrs Hardwick, who has two children and one grandchild, would not reveal how much she weighs but said she wants to lose five stone by following the Rosemary Conley diet and doing more exercise over a year.

The president of North Kilworth WI and chairperson of the village parish council has already started walking more with her three dogs – Archie, Fred and Jack – and husband Nick.

So far, she has pledges of more than £600 in sponsorship, which will go towards the Mercy Ships project.

Mrs Hardwick used to be superintendent radiographer at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

She said: "I believe the Mercy Ships charity is a very worthwhile service providing life-changing treatment in areas where doctors are scarce."

She added: "Once I have achieved that weight loss I'm hoping to volunteer to work on one of the Mercy Ships myself."

For more information email judith.hardwick@btinternet.com.