Turning Blue for Diabetes in Castlerock raises over £4,000

To date

£4,080 has been raised with donations still coming in via their JustGiving page. Speaking on behalf of the Coleraine Diabetes UK NI Support Group, Secretary Alastair Smith said: “We are absolutely overwhelmed at the support we once again received for our New Year’s Day Dip, from those who braved the cold water to those who cheered us all on and especially to those who have made donations.

"Thanks also to the Castlerock businesses for their support, as well as to the Coleraine Coastguard and St John Ambulance who were in attendance on the day. We were delighted to have such a big turn out and to see so many families, groups of friends and swimming groups enjoying a fresh dip to start their new year.

"It is only the second year we have run this event and we are delighted to be planning for it to be an annual fundraising dip moving forward.”

The total amount is being split between three research projects; Preventing Damage to the Retina in Diabetes (Dr Judith Lechner), Finding New Ways to stop Retinopathy (Prof Tim Curtis) and Towards a better way to treat Retinopathy (Dr Reinhold Medina).

Naomi Breen, Diabetes UK Northern Ireland Fundraising Manager, said: “The Coleraine Diabetes UK Support Group continues to make a difference in their local community by raising awareness about diabetes, raising vital funds and providing support to those living with this relentless condition.

"I’d like to thank the group for organising their New Year’s Day dip at Castlerock and everyone who supported the event. It was a great turn out and a huge thank you to everyone who kindly donated to Diabetes UK Northern Ireland.”

The Coleraine Diabetes UK Support Group is open to all those in the area affected by diabetes, whether living with the condition themselves or living with someone who has it. They meet monthly at the University of Ulster (or via Zoom) and can be contacted on 07533 722781 or at [email protected] for further information.