A mayor who has three decades of experience working as a nurse is using her position to tackle the rising levels of diabetes in the borough.

Cllr Yemi Osho, Mayor of Waltham Forest, attended an event hosted by Diabetes UK in Peterhouse Community Centre, Upper Walthamstow Road, Walthamstow on Wednesday August 16.

The event was aimed at raising awareness of diabetes across the borough and also to start the process of forming a support group for people living with the condition.

Cllr Osho told health professionals and patients at the centre: "I have been a nurse for more than 30 years and I want to continue to reach out and make a difference in my role as Mayor.

“I have seen for myself the difficulties people with diabetes face and I am concerned that in Waltham Forest 6.6 per cent of the population currently has diabetes with levels predicted to rise to 11 per cent by 2020.

"The good news is that many cases of Type 2 diabetes can be prevented and we can help people lead healthier lives."

A number of charities are in residence at the centre including the Haven Survivors Networks, CREST and Positive Tools 4 Life.