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National recognition for Harrogate's MAN v FAT programme

Monday, 21 September 2026 08:11

MAN V FAT was recognised at the 'Million Pounds Lost' event at the Houses of Parliament.

A football-based weight loss programme run by Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation has received national recognition after its members collectively lost 1,243kg.

The MAN v FAT league, which takes place in Knaresborough every Monday evening, combines football, weight loss and peer support to help men improve their health and wellbeing.

Since launching shortly before the Covid-19 lockdown, participants in the Harrogate league have lost a combined 1,243kg – equivalent to more than 195 stone.

The programme is led by Matt Stephenson and has developed a strong community of regular members supporting each other to achieve their weight loss goals.

Its success was recently recognised at the “Million Pounds Lost” event at the Houses of Parliament, where Matt represented the Harrogate league and celebrated the progress made by MAN v FAT across the country.

The event brought together organisations working to tackle health inequalities and improve people’s wellbeing, with representatives from Movember and Prostate Cancer UK among those in attendance.

It was sponsored by Mims Davies MP and Movember and attended by Minister for Health Innovation James Frith MP and Amanda Martin MP.

Matt has also been invited to appear on the MAN v FAT Podcast to share the Harrogate league’s story and some of the individual achievements of its members.

The local programme has previously been recognised as having one of the lowest member attrition rates nationally, reflecting its consistent attendance and strong sense of community.

A spokesperson for the Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation said:

"The 1,243kg lost is more than just a number. Behind it are individual stories, personal achievements, improved confidence, new friendships and men taking positive steps towards a healthier lifestyle.

"We are incredibly proud of everyone who has played a part in the success of MAN v FAT in Harrogate and Knaresborough so far, and we look forward to seeing what the next chapter brings.

"A huge well done to all our MAN v FAT members, and to Matt for his continued commitment to making the programme such a success."

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