Thanet has a higher than average diabetes rate, with more than 11,000 people in the district living with the condition.

The rate of diabetes in England is 8.7%, whereas in Thanet it is 9.8%, compared with the South East rate of 8.3%, figures from Public Health England show.

Statistics show that there is an estimated 11,353 people over the age of 16 in Thanet living with the condition – diagnosed and undiagnosed.

These numbers are expected to rise by more than a thousand by 2025.

By 2035, however, numbers are expected to rocket to an estimated 15,085 in Thanet – an increase of more than 30% .

That’s an expected prevalence of 11% compared to the 9.7% estimation for England.

Established in 1975, Thanet’s Diabetes UK support group has been helping local people with diabetes from more than 40 years and is keen to reach out to new members this autumn.

The group is now inviting new members to attend its next meeting.

Eileen Docherty has Type 1 diabetes, and is chair of the Thanet group.

She said: “There is a history of Type 1 diabetes in my family so when I first got diagnosed I really wanted to get all the information I could and when I came across a volunteer position for Diabetes UK local group, I decided it was something positive I must do.

“Adjusting to the knowledge that you or a family member has diabetes takes time to process and it is often helpful to meet other local people who have gone through a similar situation.

“My advice is: don’t bury your head in the sand and come and see us for practical advice.”

The next meeting is taking place at Northdown House in Margate at 7pm on Thursday, October 26.

It will feature a presentation about recognising undiagnosed symptoms and how to reduce your risk of Type 2 diabetes.

The group meets on the last Thursday of most months from 7.30pm until 9.45pm, with a break for refreshments and raffle.

It is free. For more information, click here