A BURNHAM-on-Sea club is setting up a diabetes support group to help sufferers in a bid to help sufferers in the area.

Burnham Lions has teamed up with Diabetes UK to set up the group at Burnham Methodist Church, and it is set to launch on World Diabetes Awareness Day on November 14.

Phil Cooke, a diabetes sufferer and chairman of the support group, said he is pleased to be involved in the group and thinks it will make a ‘real difference’ to sufferers in Burnham and Highbridge.

“I have suffered from diabetes for a number of years and can honestly say I have not had the support I need,” Phil said.

“It is through no fault of the NHS but there is just not enough money to provide services like that in our area and they are services that are sorely needed.

“I lost my driving license and my business as a result of diabetes.

“I used to be a taxi driver but sadly one of the symptoms of diabetes is nerve damage and I lost the sensation from nerves in my hands.

“I wanted to get involved in this group as I think it could make a real difference to myself and others in Burnham and Highbridge.”

The support group will be holding its first drop in session on January 26, 2019 at Burnham Methodist Church.

There will be representatives from Diabetes UK and medical practitioners at the event who will be there to answer questions and give advice.

Phil said: “If you are suffering from diabetes, don’t suffer in silence, come to our group and find out more about your condition.”

For more information email burnhamdiabetes@gmail.com or call Phil on 07912580685.