FAMILIES put their best foot forward to support young people in Basingstoke with Type 1 diabetes.

The Basingstoke Young Diabetics Group held its annual sponsored walk, starting from the grounds of Worting House.

Dozens of families joined in, completing a one-mile course to Roman Road, Winklebury, or taking on a five-mile loop that included Wootton St Lawrence.

Refreshments were provided at the new hall at St Thomas of Canterbury Church, in Worting Road.

The group was founded in 1972 and provides support for around 140 people diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, most of whom are under the care of consultant paediatrician Dr Edward Hind, at Basingstoke hospital.

Organiser Katie John, whose eight-year-old daughter Grace was diagnosed with diabetes one year ago following an ear infection, said money raised will provide more support for group members, including residential trips that include staff from the hospital.

Other spending includes providing children with MedicAlert bracelets that tells first aiders and doctors about the condition in an emergency.

Katie, from Rooksdown, said: “Raising funds is our biggest challenge, so we hold events like these and talks with teachers and medical staff.”