A South Cheshire financial business owner is stepping out – to raise money for diabetes.

Mat White, who runs Mat White Financial Services in Middlewich Road, Sandbach, is taking part in the 'One Million Step Challenge'.

By day, Mat is busy working for clients using his services, but in between times and at weekends, he's busy taking part in Diabetes UK's challenge.

And it's a subject that's close to the businessman's heart, for a while back, he was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.

"I had all the classic symptoms," said Mat. "I was tired, had no energy, lost weight and had spots before my eyes."

Photo: Mat White

Mat began the challenge on July 1st and has pledged to continue with his campaign until September 30th, walking several thousands of steps each day in his local area at his own pace. .

"My target is 14k per day. Doing 14k steps per day every day is a big ask, but I am enjoying it," said Mat, who carried on his challenge during a recent walking holiday to the Pyrenees.

"We usually do St Luke's Midnight Walk but we're doing this instead this year. I am trying to do a million steps, which will be tough but the cause is good. Let's get stepping and beat this disease for good!"

Now back in Cheshire, Mat is continuing with the challenge, including walking several circuits round his acre-sized garden, sometimes at night wearing a head torch!

Photo: Deborah Bowyer/Sandbach Nub News

"Diabetes is such an important cause to raise money for," says Mat.      

A spokesperson for Diabetes UK said of the 'One Million Step Challenge': "However you do it, you'll end up feeling great thanks to the improved mood that comes with more movement.

"And to top it off, the funds you raise will change the lives of people living with diabetes."

Anyone wanting to donate to Mat's diabetes fundraising can follow link