A RIBBLE Valley man who has campaigned to raise awareness of diabetes for almost 20 years has won a volunteering award.

Gordon Dixon, 75, from Langho, has lived with type-two diabetes for more than 40 years and was presented with the Raising Awareness Award at Diabetes UK’s regional Inspire Awards in Bury.

The father-of-two and grandfather-of-three has been a member of the Ribble Valley Diabetes UK Group for the past two decades and is currently the chairman.

Last year, he publicised the importance of good foot care for people with diabetes in response to the high rates of diabetes-related amputations in North West Lancashire.

Since then, he has also met with Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans in Westminster to raise awareness of the ‘postcode lottery’ of diabetes care.

Mr Dixon, who lives in Higher Field, said: “It was very humbling to receive the award and it was a huge honour.

“There were so many people also nominated from the north west who have done amazing work.

“It proves that there are a lot of other people who are also involved in helping to raise the awareness of diabetes.

“There are more people suffering with it than all the cancers put together and I think people sometimes forget that.

“It’s critical to raise awareness but the number of people with diabetes always seems to be on the rise.”

Helen Pattie, Diabetes UK’s regional manager in the North West, said: “Gordon is an absolute asset to Diabetes UK and a real support for people with diabetes in his area, always being available to listen to their concerns.

“His knowledge of diabetes and determination when demanding the very best healthcare for people is admirable.”

n Free checks will aid fight – page 38.