SPRY by name – and spry by nature! Bill Spry from Ashburton has been awarded a special medal for his lifelong endurance of diabetes.

The charity which promotes greater awareness of the condition has recognised his resilience by awarding him a medal for living with the disorder for nearly 60 years.

Bill, who lives in Stonepark Crescent, was delighted with the honour bestowed on him by Diabetes UK.

He was just 25 when he was diagnosed with the illness which can be life-limiting.

But at the tender age of 83 he is now the proud owner of the Alan Nabarro medal for coping with the affliction so well and so long.

Bill, through careful attention to detail and taking on the responsibility for managing the condition himself, has avoided any major organ damage which would normally be expected after having diabetes for so long.

As well as a medal, the recipient was also presented with a letter of congratulations from Diabetes UK.

His GP, Dr Nick Cartmell, joined Bill’s district nurse care team to present the award at his home.

Dr Cartmell said after the presentation: ‘We are delighted to be able to present the Alan Nabarro medal to Bill.

‘The medal is awarded by Diabetes UK to people who have lived with diabetes for more than 50 years.

‘Bill thoroughly deserves this recognition because ever since he was diagnosed he has had a full understanding of his diabetes and taken control of his own treatment in order to maintain his health and independence.

‘This example of self-care is a credit to him and his family.’