THE Chorley, Preston and South Ribble Diabetics Support Group wants to send children packing - to specialised holiday resorts.

The group has organised a flourish of fund-raising events for the summer to raise its profile and money to continue helping the 40 to 50 diabetic children in the area - and your full support is urgently required.

Diabetic specialist visitor Sheila Welch explained: "We want people to support our events and raise money for our kids, especially with Diabetes Awareness Week coming up in June.

"Around 12 children a year are diagnosed with diabetes in Chorley and Preston. We offer practical advice and support such as the latest diabetic news, and the provision of medical alert bracelets and equipment to help test the blood.

"Children's eyes light up when they are offered the chance of a holiday. It lasts from a week to ten days and costs between £200 and £400. As well as being educational, kids have loads of fun taking part in abseiling, canoeing, horse riding, swimming and other activities.

"It's excellent fun for the children and a welcome break for parents who must cope with the burden of the condition 24 hours a day, every day, constantly monitoring blood sugar level, injections and diet."

The group meets on the first Thursday of every month at Ingol's Health Centre, but Sheila is fighting for a meeting place closer to home in Adlington to encourage more diabetics to turn up.

If you want to raise money for the group or for more information contact Sheila on (01257) 272085.

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