Stunell meets Steve Redgrave to discuss diabetes

5.22.54pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 25th Oct 2005

Local MP, Andrew Stunell met 5 times Olympic gold medallist Sir Steve Redgrave in Parliament last week in a bid to raise awareness of diabetes.

Sir Steve, who was first diagnosed with the condition back in 1997, but went on to re-write the history books by winning gold in the Sydney Olympics, is an excellent example of how, if diagnosed early and managed well, diabetes need not be at all restricting.

Sir Steve Redgrave told Mr Stunell:

"When I was first diagnosed I was completely devastated and believed initially that I would no longer be able to continue training for the Olympics in 2000. How wrong I was! I very soon realised that with special guidance and support I would be able to continue training and reach the goals I had set myself."

Hazel Grove MP, Andrew Stunell said:

"The impact of diabetes on our health as a nation is staggering. It is estimated that around 2 million people are diagnosed as having diabetes but there are a further 1 million unaware that they are living with the condition. This can greatly impact on their quality of life and ultimate life expectancy as well as putting increased pressure on our local health services."

A simple free test taking less than 2 minutes is available at a number of local pharmacies including the Lloydspharmacy at 7 High Street, Cheadle. So far, Lloydspharmacy have tested three quarters of a million people across the UK, with more than 37,500 of those needing a referral to their GP because they were perceived to be at significant risk of developing the condition. ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1. A photograph of Andrew Stunell MP and Sir Steve Redgrave is available from Jane Allen, 0207 2195223 or on Andrew Stunell's website: www.andrew.stunell.org.uk

1. Lloydspharmacy has won a plethora of awards for the services they offer and to date, has screened 750,000 people for diabetes and assessed the blood pressure of a million individuals. These core services go a long way to help relieve the pressure on other front line healthcare professionals and have been welcomed by leading charities such as Diabetes UK and the Blood Pressure Awareness Association.

2. For further information or to speak to a local spokesperson for Lloydspharmacy please contact:

Lisa Chick/ Ann Bryant

Starfish Communications LLP

Tel: 020 7323 2121

Fax: 020 7323 0234

Email: chick@star-fish.net / mayne@star-fish.net

Registered in England and Wales, Partnership Number: OC308910

www.lloydspharmacy.com

3. Lloydspharmacy is part of the Admenta UK plc group, which is owned by Celesio AG.