PETERSFIELD and District Voluntary Group of Diabetes UK can be proud of its achievements throughout 2015, despite having just a few members says its chairman,.

David Bailey said: “If we want the group to continue its work, furthering the understanding of Diabetes and supporting research we desperately need more people to become involved.

“Currently we would like to recruit people to serve on the committee.”

He added at the end of the year the branch treasurer Carol McNally, was able to send off a cheque for £2,000 in support of one of the research projects sponsored by Diabetes UK.

This success was due to a wide range of donations and support for local fund raising activities.

Members and friends attending evening meetings at St Peter’s Hall, Petersfield and lunches The Half Moon pub in Sheet, always generously supported raffles and donated prizes, said Mr Bailey.

Headley Bowls Club donated the proceeds of their Annual Members Charity Day, a fantastic £1,300, and two branch members were sponsored in the Liphook Charity Bike Ride.

Mr Bailey said: “Another unusual and unique gift was from Andrew Silvester, the son of a former member, Don. Andrew has made a decorative wooden cart which he hires to people getting married at a local venue to hold wedding favours or sweets. The money raised he donates to the group’s funds.”

A Coffee Morning at Winton House, awareness stalls at Waterlooville and Petersfield Markets, a stall at the charity market in the Festival Hall in Petersfield and a Sponsored Walk in Queen Elizabeth Country Park all helped raise funds.

The group’s next meeting is at 7.30pm on Tuesday March 22, in St Peter’s Hall, and will include the Annual General Meeting and an update on the research project.

In 2016 the group aims to continue supporting the research project.

Mr Bailey said: “Our programme of meetings and activities has been prepared and is available by email or post. Currently we would like to recruit people to serve on the committee

“We welcome those with an interest in diabetes to join us. There is no membership fee.”

For details about the group contact Mr Bailey, on 02392643504 or email [email protected]