A BARTON Stacey woman who campaigns tirelessly for better diabetes services has won a national award from leading charity Diabetes UK.

As previously reported in the Chronicle, former city banker Sally Oxlade was first presented with the regional Supporting Diabetes UK award in recognition of her hard work at the charity’s Inspire Awards, held in Epsom.

Since then, she has gone on to be presented with the UK Inspire Award at a special ceremony in Birmingham.

Sally was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 55 after contracting meningitis and septicaemia.

After retiring she decided she wanted to use her time to help raise awareness of diabetes and joined Diabetes UK as a full-time volunteer.

She’s raised more than £1,230 for Diabetes UK in the last year as well as working hard to establish the new Winchester and Eastleigh Support Group.

Diabetes UK’s CEO Chris Askew presented Sally with the prestigious award at Birmingham’s Edgebaston cricket ground.

Sally said: “To be recognised in this way for a national volunteering award has blown me away. It is such an honour to receive this award and I feel so lucky to volunteer for such a lovely charity that cares and encourages their volunteers.

“You always feel part of a team at Diabetes UK. Volunteering for Diabetes UK gives me the opportunity to raise awareness and understanding of the condition. I do a lot of work with the local Diabetes UK groups in the area to help raise their profile and boost awareness of diabetes.

“ I am extremely passionate that there should be not only a better understanding of diabetes but that there is support and information to help people cope better with their situation.”

Jill Steaton, regional manager at Diabetes UK South East, said: “Every year, across the UK, thousands of people give their time to help provide support, fundraise for pioneering research and raise awareness of diabetes. The Inspire Awards offer the chance to recognise and celebrate their efforts.

“ I can’t thank Sally enough for her contribution to our work and the positive difference she has made to the lives of people living with diabetes in the local community.”