A Taunton man has opened up on his journey to type 2 diabetes remission.

Tim Hill, a 48-year-old from Somerset, embraced the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission programme following his diagnosis.

He has made remarkable progress towards remission in a space of three months, including losing two and a half stone and lowering his blood pressure.

Sharing his experience, Mr Hill hopes to raise awareness of diabetes and be a beacon of hope for the over 30,000 people in Somerset living with the diagnosis.

His story hits the headlines in time with the launch of the type 2 diabetes remission hub by Diabetes UK.

Mr Hill said: "My diagnosis essentially came about by luck.

"I told my boss about a spot in my eye, and it was him who encouraged me to get tested, he lives with the condition so knows only too well how serious it is.

"It was such a wake-up call."

The diagnosis was a major turning point in his life.

He continued: "Following the diagnosis, I felt like I was left to my own devices to make lifestyle changes".

He gained invaluable insights from BBC Radio Somerset's feature on the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission.

Mr Hill explained: "After being accepted onto the programme I set myself three objectives; to lose weight, to lower my blood pressure and to put my type 2 diabetes into remission.

"I can’t believe I’m on track to put my type 2 diabetes into remission and feel so proud of myself.

"My self-esteem and mental wellbeing have also improved, and I’ve got so much more energy".

Type 2 diabetes remission means that blood sugar levels are managed below the diabetes range, negating the requirement for diabetes medication.

Mr Hill added: "For anyone out there who is struggling with a type 2 diagnosis, I’d encourage them to find out more about type 2 diabetes remission and the benefits this can have for your health".

Phaedra Perry, the head of Diabetes UK South West and South Central, encouraged people living with the disorder to pursue the programme.

She said: "We recognise that people have been asking for more help and support to understand type 2 diabetes remission and how to achieve it".

For more information about Diabetes UK, such as finding a local support group or details on its remission hub, visit its official website at www.diabetes.org.uk/.