Denise Welch shares before and after snaps as she marks 11 years of sobriety

Denise Welch said quitting drinking changed her life as she marked 11 years of sobriety by sharing before and after images.

The first snap posted on Instagram showed the Loose Women star when she was still using alcohol.

The second was taken more recently and showed the TV star looking happy and healthy as she beamed at the camera.

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“11 yrs sober today!!!” said the 64-year-old.

“Giving up my disastrous relationship with alcohol changed my life, my husband’s life and my children’s lives. Plus the lives of all who love me.

“It wasn’t easy. Addiction is a cruel and frightening illness.”

Welch, who has been married to husband Lincoln Townley since 2013, said she’d realised that she was affecting other people’s lives and had managed to get sober.

“I now have a wonderful marriage that is the foundation of my life,” she said.

“Our kids are happy and I hope those of you struggling find the strength to stop. If alcohol no longer makes you happy, if your drinking makes others lives miserable it’s time to stop.

"There is help there if you need it.”

Fans were blown away by the difference between the side by side images.

One called the star an “inspiration” and another fan said Welch was their “hero”.

“Good on you for remaining strong,” said somebody else.

The presenter’s fellow Loose Women stars also chimed in, with Ruth Langsford posting: “You’re amazing and such a great help to others.”

Nadia Sawalha added: “I am in awe... one day at a time for 11 years! And look what it’s brought you!”

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Welch later responded: “I’m honestly so touched and overwhelmed by your comments and support. Thank you so much.”

Watch: Denise Welch met her younger second husband while crashing Tinie Tempah's birthday party