AN "inspirational single mum" who turned her life around after her husband walked out just before Christmas has featured on national television.

Justine Clayton, from Taunton, told how she overcame depression brought on by the shock of her husband suddenly walking out on her and their two children just over a year ago.

On ITV's Lorraine programme today (Tuesday, January 12), Justine, a county councillor, revealed how she took up going to the gym, where she joined in fitness classes and group training sessions.

The short film on Lorraine's Turn It Around 2016 feature looked at how her efforts have allowed her to come off antidepressants and saw her lose four stone.

Justine said: "I go to the gym because it’s social and I’ve got friends there.

“It wasn’t about losing the weight - which was a bonus for me. For me it was more about becoming mentally and physically stronger, which makes everything seem more positive.”

After Lorraine told Justine she is "an inspirational single mum", the mother-of-two said: "It's not over yet - it's a journey and if I can do it, so can anyone else."

Richard McGrory, manager at the Blackbrook Pavilion, in Taunton, where she trains, said: "Seeing Justine’s transformation has been amazing.

"Through working with our trainers and attending regular classes we really did see her change in the person she was, not just physically but mentally as well.”

Sports centre operator Tone Leisure's managing director Juliette Dickinson said: "Justine’s story is truly inspirational.

"Obviously it’s great to see Justine on TV talking about her experiences and the part fitness plays in that, but we regularly see a lot of both men and women achieving similar results which makes you realise the import role health and fitness can play in someone’s life.”