Summer is the perfect time for going on leisurely walks in the park, so what better time to think about embarking on a sponsored walk for a national charity?

The Oxfordshire branch of Diabetes UK is holding a sponsored walk to highlight diabetes and raise money for research into the condition.

More than 80 walkers will be getting together at University Parks, Parks Road, Oxford, next month for a gentle stroll around this world-famous park. This is one of over 100 walks taking place around the country to mark Diabetes Week, which runs from June 9 to 15.

Diabetes is a condition where the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood is too high because the body cannot use it properly.

The condition is becoming more prevalent, with more than two million people in the UK affected - about three in every 100 people, and it is estimated that about one million people have undiagnosed diabetes.

The local branch of Diabetes UK is hoping to raise over £3,000, which will help towards the £7.5m a year Diabetes UK spends on research. Since the national launch of Walk in the Park in 1999, over £1.5 million has been raised.

Gwyn Huish, chairman of the branch said: "This is our major annual fundraising event and we hope to have some fun.

"I hope we can raise awareness of diabetes but that with early diagnosis and sensible blood glucose control, they can live a perfectly normal life, and avoid many of the complications associated with diabetes.

"I am pleased that so many people are turning up to support our walk each year and, please remember, if someone wants to take part, they can do as few or as many circuits of the park as they like. The park is fully accessible, and I would welcome wheelchair users and anyone with a baby buggy."

Last year, when asked if she'd enjoyed the walk, Susie Simpson replied: "I've done 3 circuits with my dog already. Can we do a 4th please?"

The walk takes place at 2pm on Sunday, June 15. For more information, contact Gwyn Huish on 01869 242596, or email: gwynhuish@aol.com The Oxfordshire branch meets every two months in Northway, Oxford, where an invited speaker talks on a topical subject. Recent talks have included Diabetes and looking after your feet, Helping prevent heart attacks and strokes, and Healing yourself with natural therapies.