A RETIREE from North Somerset is tackling a one million steps challenge for charity.

Barbara Harris, from Backwell, is taking on the challenge for Diabetes UK after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes 18 years ago.

Ms Harris, who was an industrial engineer, a lecturer in business studies, and a data and information manager, is a volunteer for Diabetes UK.

“Exercise is the one thing that helps me control my glucose levels as well as making me feel good, so I’m pretty active anyway," she said.

"We walked loads over lockdown and regularly did more than 50,000 steps a week.

“I also cycle at least once a week which my Fitbit converts into steps so I’m including them in my count.

“I’ve also just started to play golf and I go to the gym regularly, so I knew I was up to the challenge with a bit of effort and, of course, the step tracker is a great motivator too.”

Barbara cycled with friends from Backwell to Wells over the Mendips, and took a trip to the Hampton Court Flower Festival in London to get her steps up.

Phaedra Perry, regional head of Diabetes UK South West, said their funding has been 'significantly impacted' by the pandemic, but the demand for services has reached 'record levels'.

"More so than ever, people with diabetes need us, but we need your support to be able to continue fighting their corner," she added.

“We want to thank Barbara for her unwavering support.

"Without her and people like her, we simply would not be able to offer help to the thousands of people with diabetes contacting us, to campaign to keep people with diabetes safe in the workplace, or to invest in the latest in vital ground-breaking research.”

Diabetes is a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood because the body cannot use it properly.

If not managed well, both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can lead to complications.

To sponsor Barbara visit step.diabetes.org.uk/fundraising/barbara-harris2021.