RESIDENTS in Weardale have helped a Bishop Auckland consultant in his quest to equip young diabetics in his care with insulin pumps.

Fundraisers from the Dale have raised £7,500 for Dr Bill Lamb's Run 500 Miles Appeal.

Dr Lamb set his challenge two years ago and has so far, with support from surrounding communities, given 32 insulin pumps to children with diabetes, who are in his care.

The latest donation came from Weardale charity Independence 4 Disability and Wolsingham fundraiser Anita Savoury. Their combined efforts will enable Dr Lamb to buy another three pumps.

The group visited Bishop Auckland yesterday to present Dr Lamb with the money and met nine-year-old Rebecca Robinson, from Ireshopeburn, who will benefit from the appeal with her own insulin pump.

The fundraisers were inspired to get involved after seeing the benefits an insulin pump have given to 18-year-old Terry Gowland, whose mother, Jayne, is a member of Independence 4 Disability.

The charity completed a number of events to raise the money, including a wheelchair walk and mini marathon.

Mrs Savoury said: "This is another example of how generous the good-hearted people of Weardale are. Everybody gave what they could to this good cause."

Dr Lamb said: "I was really taken aback by how many people in the Dales took part and gave what they could. I didn't realise it was such a strong community. It is amazing and this now means three more children can have pumps."