Running gear for a chunkster like me...

Same size/build as you with same spec wishlist.

Went for Adidas climacool three-quarter length lycra trousers. Can't tell you how pleased I am with them.

They stay up, feel like second skin, none too revealing (despite fear) and are utterly ace. Sad and a bit mad but they are so comfy/flattering I'd wear them all the time.

On top just wear a plain black tee-shirt. Good bra essential obviously - hate hoiking straps up. Got mine from Next for a reasonable price. Good socks and running shoes specifically for running (not x-training etc).

HTH

You need to swallow your pride and get lycra tights/leggings. Honestly - anything else will chafe like a ***. Wear baggy shorts or a big T-shirt over if it makes you feel better - a Nike men's top in XL will hide a multitude of sins and be breathable. Also get shades/a baseball cap/an iPod to make you feel less conspicuous. And proper running shoes, and a serious sports bra, and you'll be good to go.

You'll lose quite a lot of weight quite fast once you get going. When you want to spend money on some nice kit, Ron Hill stuff comes up v roomy - I have a size 12 top that I reckon would fit a 16. Also M&S do okay and cheap sportswear - but make sure you get the technical fibres not the cotton stuff.

The closer-fitting the better on the bottom, definitely. I wear 3/4 tights when I'm not in shorts, and you forget you've got them on. I'm a fan of the Nike Dri-Fit t-shirts and my H likes Adidas Climacool stuff, and they're not too expensive (you can pick up stuff at outlet stores and TK Maxx).

Honestly, I passed about five runners this morning when I was out and I couldn't tell you what anyone was wearing. The only time I've noticed was when it was a woman who was obviously trying to cover up and just looked weighed down and uncomfortable in big baggy cotton t-shirt, tracksuit bottoms and top. I thought that she probably felt miserable when she was running and would give up because she felt like she couldn't do it.

Anyway, this is something I read somewhere else - the only people who are qualified to criticise (your clothes/performance/time etc) are other runners, and they're the only people who won't!

Sorry to come back to this so late, thanks all for the suggestions and positive comments... it means a lot and gives me hope!!!

Will check out the clothes recommended!