A screenshot of Dr. Velma Harkins was circulated to the group, with disparaging comments about her weight. She had appeared on RTE television to discuss a successful midlands diabetes initiative in which she is involved.

Former Health Minister Mary Harney and her husband were also targeted for abuse.

In a statement to The Irish Daily Star, Weight Watchers CEO Martina Sinclair insists the remarks in no way reflect the views and values of Weight Watchers. “Never ever have I seen anything like this on it before – I dont even know where to begin.”

When contacted by Midlands 103 this morning, a number of leaders said they had been instructed by Head Office not to comment on fat shaming.

However Angela Greene, who holds classes in Tullamore and Edenderry, received early morning calls from angry members and felt obliged to assure listeners that nobody from the midlands was involved.

It’s understood the people who made the nasty remarks remain leaders. No company spokesperson has been made available and they have not explained why senior managers – who were members of the WhatsApp group – did not moderate the comments.

How should Weight Watchers deal with the controversy? email us at midlandstoday@midlandsradio.fm