A TOTAL of 119 people in Bury have been newly identified as being at risk of developing type two diabetes.

They were among 258 people seen during a healthy lifestyle roadshow which took place over two days at The Rock and at Bury Market, organised by Diabetes UK and Bupa.

Those at risk of developing type two diabetes were referred to their doctor for a further test and support, with some finding they may already have the condition which can go unnoticed for years.

Accoring to Diabetes UK, getting diagnosed early, or being recognised as high or moderate risk, means that people have the opportunity to make healthy lifestyle choices which can help them avoid serious health problems.

Type two diabetes is a lifelong condition but people who get diagnosed can go on to manage it well, through healthy eating, exercise and, in some cases, medication.

A dietician was on site to offer advice about how to achieve a healthy balanced diet and there was an activity zone encouraged people to take exercise.

Also attending the event was Bury’s Mayor, Cllr Michelle Wiseman, who took part in a challenge to assess her own risk of developing diabetes.

Cllr Wiseman said: “I was very pleased to attend the Diabetes UK healthy lifestyle roadshow and would like to thank all concerned for bringing the event to Bury. I found it interesting to see good outcomes from the work Diabetes UK are doing.”

Jo Cunnah, Diabetes UK’s interim regional manager in the North West, said those identified as being at risk now have the chance to get help from their doctor.

She added: “It’s worrying that so many people in Bury have been identified as moderate or high risk of type two diabetes, particularly as there are already 10,207 people diagnosed with the condition in Bury. “