Slimming World founder Margaret Miles-Bramwell dead aged 76 as tributes pour in

By Gemma Jones, Showbiz Reporter

Margaret Miles-Bramwell has died (Image: Instagram)

The founder of weight loss company Slimming World Margaret Miles-Bramwell has died aged 76.

Ms Miles-Bramwell died on Sunday morning surrounded by her family after she had "touched the hearts and changed the lives of millions of people", the company said in a statement.

The organisation released an emotional tribute to Instagram confirming the death. It read: "It is with deep sadness that we share the news that our beloved founder Margaret Miles-Bramwell OBE passed away earlier today, surrounded by her family.

"As well as being our guiding star and the beating heart and soul of Slimming World, Margaret will be remembered for being a much loved mum, grandmother and great-grandmother."

The entrepreneur grew the houshold name brand from a single weight loss group to a network of more than 3,500 consultants, after starting the business in 1969.

Speaking of how Margaret nurtured the business, Slimming World's statement continued: "Margaret steered her ship in the way she lived her life – with a generous spirit, passionate conviction, a wicked (and rebellious!) sense of humour and a fierce belief in doing the right thing.

"Her determination to help people shed the burden of excess weight without shame or guilt has seen Slimming World grow from a single group in 1969 to the global authority in weight management that it is today.

"She undoubtedly touched hearts and changed lives for millions of people – and for all of us who knew and loved her. She’ll continue to do so for many more years to come."

They continued: "Our thoughts are with Margaret’s family. We take comfort, as we’re sure they do, in the hope that Margaret is now reunited with her beloved Tony – sailing off into the sunset together."

The diet guru was awarded an OBE in 2009 for her services to the health of the British public.

Tributes quickly began pouring in online. One follower wrote: "You were the light for so many people Margret. And you will always be shining for us."

Another added: "Absolutely gutted what an incredible woman she was, and will always be fondly remembered," while a third shared: RIP Margaret… Wishing a lot of strength to the family for this immense loss in this hard time.

"She and Tony were beautiful people and will always remember them in my heart."