A NEWPORT woman is set to tackle the 10-mile London Bridge Challenge for charity.

Sarah Gibbs will be joining hundreds of other walkers as they take on the mammoth trek across 12 of London’s most iconic bridges, including Waterloo Bridge, London Bridge and Tower Bridge.

The walk will start in Battersea Park and the route will take walkers past Big Ben, St Paul’s and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

Ms Gibbs, who will be raising money for Diabetes UK, is taking part to raise awareness of Type 2 diabetes, after she was diagnosed with the condition three years ago.

She said: “When I was first diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes I felt isolated and alone, but then I heard about a Living With Diabetes Day organised by Diabetes UK Cymru. Attending the day changed my life, and since then I have thrown myself into volunteering for the charity.

“The team have supported me, helped me to set up a local support group for people living with diabetes, and have provided me with training to be a volunteer speaker.

“I did the walk last year with my two daughters and everyone wearing a blue London Bridges t-shirt had a beaming smile and words of encouragement. It’s the infectious spirit among everyone taking part that I’m really looking forward to - all of us connected with a common aim.

“Last time it took me six hours, but I’ve been doing a lot of training this year and hope to complete the walk in four and half hours. It’s a really emotional experience, and this year I can’t wait.”

The national director of Diabetes UK Cymru, Dai Williams, said he was “delighted” that Ms Gibbs was raising money for the charity.

He said: “Walking is a great way of keeping fit and active, and can help you to maintain a healthy weight which is key to reducing your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Getting plenty of exercise and eating healthily can also help people with diabetes to manage their condition well.

“We hope Sarah’s commitment will inspire others in Wales to get moving. Every penny raised will help us to support the millions of people living with diabetes in the UK so please give generously to back Sarah and her amazing effort.If Sarah has inspired you to take on this challenge, there’s still time to sign up for this year’s event."

To sponsor Ms Gibbs visit bit.ly/2wf1TC1