When the Ashpole family found out that their son had diabetes it was a life-changing experience.

The four-year-old, of Yate, was diagnosed with the chronic condition after returning from a family holiday two years ago and since then his mum Rachael and dad Phillip have had to learn how to carry out the necessary tests and regulate his diet so he stays healthy.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that occurs when the body attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

People with the condition rely on insulin injections or pump infusions every day just to stay alive.

Next month the family will be taking part in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation's (JDRF) Walk to Cure Diabetes in Oldbury Court.

The charity was founded by parents of children with type 1 diabetes and exists to fund research into the condition.

It is the world's largest funder of research into the type of diabetes.

Mrs Ashpole, 37, said: "On holiday, Charlie had been drinking lots and going to the toilet a lot. This continued when we returned to the UK, so we took him to our GP, who referred us to our local hospital. Charlie was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes within minutes and our world seemed to shatter.

"You have to try to understand what your child has, that they can't grow out of it and that it's a condition for life, which can present horrific complications."

The family knew little about diabetes when Charlie was diagnosed but had to learn very quickly how to inject him with insulin to control his levels.

They also had to learn about what food their son could eat to maintain his blood glucose.

Mrs Ashpole said: "This was a very hard time for us all and it hit the whole family. It was a huge, life-changing experience, a lot more than I would have thought.

"We have battled with his levels: he has gone from two injections to six injections a day.

"After a year or so of changing his insulin regime, Charlie was put on an insulin pump. Although we still get bad days, his quality of life has improved and I feel like he is back to his old self.

"Despite this, Charlie can still suffer 'hypos' (low blood glucose) which, if left untreated, can land him in hospital."

On Sunday, September 13, fundraisers will walk five miles around the Oldbury Court Estate to raise money for the charity.

The Ashpoles, including Charlie's brother Ben, seven, and the family dog Jake will be among those taking part, having participated last year.

Mrs Ashpole said: "JDRF's Walk to Cure Diabetes is a fantastic family day out and it's a great way to raise money and awareness for type 1 diabetes research. As a mother of a child with the condition, I feel very proud that by walking the Walk and raising money we will really be helping to find the cure and advance the technology towards a better quality of life.

"We took part in the walk last year. It is such a good day out.

"The work that JDRF does gives me hope for Charlie's future."

To take part in the walk, register online at www.jdrf.org.uk/walk or contact 01179 452491.