I WOULD like to encourage readers to have a tea party on Wednesday, May 4 for Care For A Cuppa Day to help raise vital funds for Diabetes UK. The charity is urging people to organise tea parties throughout the year to help support research and other diabetes-related projects.

I know first-hand how large the impact of diabetes can be on people with diabetes and their family as my brother has Type 1 diabetes. In the UK, there are 2.8 million people diagnosed with diabetes and it is estimated that a further 850,000 people have Type 2 diabetes but do not know it.

Diabetes is a serious condition that can lead to devastating complications including heart disease, blindness and amputation if untreated or not diagnosed early enough.

Throwing a Care For A Cuppa party is a great way to entertain friends, family and colleagues with the knowledge it can make a real difference to the lives of people with diabetes.

To register for a party and receive a fundraising pack, please contact the Diabetes UK Care For A Cuppa team on 020 7424 1870 or email careforacuppa@diabetes.org.uk. For more information visit www.careforacuppa.org.uk.

Enjoy your cuppa!

MELANIE C Singer and former Spice Girl