Diabetes UK Glevem Voluntary Group, has been presented with a cheque for £960.50 by Bishops Cleeve based GE Aviation., to help offer support to people living in the Gloucester area with diabetes and a chance to meet and share experiences with others.

The money was raised as a result of GE Aviation’s £ for lb Challenge to its staff. The challenge, organised by Gina Cotton and Lucy Huish, the companies Occupational Health nurses, involved staff in entering a weight loss programme, with the company donating £1 for every lb lost by those taking part. By the amount raised, it appears that many staff at GE Aviation are now much thinner and healthier as a result, which will help lower their risk of developing Diabetes.

Glevum voluntary group chair Mike Broome said:

“We are staggered by the amount raised and are very grateful to GE Aviation staff for their magnificent effort.

“The funds will go towards providing support and information to those with Diabetes, in particular those newly diagnosed, who can often find it difficult understanding and coming to terms with the condition, we are here to let them know they are not alone”

As well as providing support and information, the group has guest speakers at its meetings and also campaign to improve local diabetes services, hold social events and run awareness-raising activities.

The Glevum voluntary group meet at the Abbeydale Sports & Community Centre, Glevum Way, Abbeydale, Gloucester GL4 4BL, at 7.30pm on the second Wednesday of each month, except April and August. Everybody is welcome and admission is free.

The next meeting will be held on the 11 July