Last week, I met up in Parliament with two local lads, Nick Taylor and Tom Parker (pictured below), to raise awareness of type 1 diabetes. The event was organised by the charity JDRF. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic, life-threatening condition which can afflict young children and stays with them through life. It affects the immune system, undermining the body's ability to protect itself.

Nick and Tom explained their daily routine, which involves constant blood sugar tests (done by pricking a finger) and insulin infusions throughout the day. It is a tough condition for anyone, but especially youngsters. I was really impressed with Nick and Tom for their grit, resilience and tenacity - they are determined not to let it stop them enjoying a full life.

JDRF are raising awareness of the condition, and I am certainly willing to add my call for more focused research in this area to help international efforts to find ways to prevent and treat this serious illness.