OUT of 25 people who were tested, only four had readings that required further investigating when Crediton and District Lions Club held a diabetes awareness day at Crediton. 

Held in Crediton Methodist Church, Nurse Chelsea from Redlands was kept busy non-stop through the morning.

The day was organised by Lion Bronwyn Nott, Lions Club secretary who thanked the surgery and everyone who helped with the event. 

Nurse Chelsea said the test could be an early warning sign showing that something might be not quite right and people should go for a full blood test at a surgery. 

She said diabetes was “incredibly life changing” and, among other things, can affect the eyes.  A lot can be done through diet and lifestyle changes for Type 2 diabetes, Type 1 was less easy. 

Bronwyn said diabetes education was one of the Lions’ global awareness aims, even more important because the club has one or two members who were diabetic.

“Diabetes Education is one of the major aims of Lions Clubs globally,” said Bronwyn.   “As well as all the information on healthy eating there was lots about foot and eye care from Diabetes UK and also the Independent Diabetes Trust. 

“It was a very busy two hours and the fact that four people who were unaware of their risk of developing Diabetes were identified and advised 

to contact their GP made it a worthwhile event to hold,” she added. 

A lot of information was available about diabetes and how people could deal with it, including menu lists and exercise plans.  

Also kept busy were Fitness Consultants from Lords Meadow Leisure Centre, Rachael Dunn and Becky Horton.  

Becky said they have a GP referral scheme, a programme would be put together.  She added it could be quite easy for some people to get down to a good level.

The club was also offering people its Emergency Bottle, the pot with a green cross on it that can contain all the information any emergency service might need about you or your family.  They suggest it is kept in the fridge so that it is easily accessible at any time.