DIABETES screening events will take place in Darlington, with the number of cases in the UK having soared since 2008.

NHS data estimated about 850,000 people have the disease but are not aware of it.

Health trainers are holding screening days at various venues as part of the Living Well, Taking Control project.

The sessions, which will also offer healthy living advice, take place at:

• Lifestyle Fitness, Eastmount Road, February 24, 3pm to 7pm;

• Blackwell Grange Hotel, February 25, 10am to 8pm;

• Pioneering Care Centre, Newton Aycliffe, February 26, 10am to 8pm;

• Dolphin Centre, April 7 and 8, 10am to 4.30pm.

Pioneering Care Partnership health trainer Donna Kelly said: “Many people are at risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes without realising it and we want to help people become more aware of what they can do to prevent it.

“Health trainers encourage positive behaviour changes including a healthy diet, increasing physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and positive thinking.

"People who are at risk, or who have been diagnosed within the last nine months are invited to attend a four week course to receive information and resources to improve knowledge, skills and confidence; enabling participants to take control of their own condition, or health risks.”

For more information, visit pcp.uk.net or email enquiries@pcp.uk.net