A WIMBORNE councillor who has worked tirelessly to help people with diabetes has been recognised at the first ever Diabetes UK South West Inspire Awards.

Henry Bartlett, who has type 2 diabetes and injects insulin four times a day, was presented with the Diabetes Voice award at the charity’s regional volunteering conference in Taunton.

Cllr Bartlett was one of the first people to sign up as a volunteer for the charity’s Diabetes Voices scheme when it was launched in 2011. Members of the initiative help the charity improve care and services for all people with diabetes by campaigning.

He said: “If you give back and try to help others, you get so many rewards in return.

“I think it can be so valuable to work hard and think of others as well as yourself. I enjoy volunteering, and it’s part of my life now.”

The councillor has supported the charity for the past 10 years and is the chair of the Diabetes UK West Dorset Voluntary Group, which provides support, advice and social activities for people affected by the condition.

He has also recently become a Diabetes UK Service Champion, representing the charity at NHS meetings and events locally.

Cllr Bartlett, who needed a quadruple bypass in 2004, was diagnosed with diabetes in 1997, and his brother also has the condition.

He said: “I keep myself pretty fit and healthy now.

“That’s one of the most important things people should do – eat right and get enough exercise. It’s really very important.”

He said he was delighted to have received the award from Diabetes UK.

“I’m delighted that my work has been recognised with this award,” he said.

“I get a real buzz from all the volunteering work I’ve done to help people with diabetes.”