I WOULD like to encourage Oxford Mail readers to have a summer tea party to help raise vital funds for Diabetes UK’s Care For A Cuppa campaign.

The charity is urging people to organise tea parties to help support research and other diabetes-related projects. I know first-hand the impact diabetes can have on people with the condition and their family, as my brother has Type 1 diabetes.

In the UK, there are 2.8 million people diagnosed with diabetes and it is estimated that a further 850,000 people have Type 2 diabetes but don’t know it.

Diabetes is a serious condition that can lead to devastating complications including heart disease, blindness and amputation if untreated or not diagnosed early enough.

Throwing a Care For A Cuppa tea party this summer is a great way to entertain friends, family and colleagues with the knowledge it can make a real difference to the lives of people with diabetes. To register for a party and receive a fundraising pack, please contact the Diabetes UK Care For A Cuppa team on 020 7424 1870 or email careforacuppa@diabetes.org.uk.

For more information visit careforacuppa.org.uk Enjoy your cuppa!

MELANIE C singer and former Spice Girl