RUNNERS from Milford Haven will join a team of 46 people running the Bristol Half Marathon in memory of a 25-year-old who died from complications caused by Type 1 diabetes.

Bleddyn Duffy died at home last year in Blackpool from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a medical emergency caused by a lack of insulin, leading the body to produce poisonous ketones.

Led by Bleddyn’s sister, Blanche and his father Eugene, the team will tackle the 13.1 mile course on September 21.

Among those running from Eugene’s hometown of Milford Haven are Spencer Duffy, Sean Duffy, Stuart Owen, Alex Owen, Pat Owen, Finola Findlay, Scott Findlay Dave Bamber Caroline Hargaden, Mich Hargaden and Stacey Etherington.

Bleddyn was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when he was 20 and completing army training.

Blanche said that her family is desperate to raise awareness of the dangers of DKA.

“The day he died my dad had been up to see him and he complained of feeling and being sick and had some pains in his chest and arms. Dad had offered to take him to the doctors or hospital, but he declined saying he would be fine.

“As a family we did not realise this was a symptom of DKA and how seriously it should have been taken. He was found dead in his bed the next evening by my mum who went to see him after not responding to several phone calls.

“It is believed he died in his sleep. Diabetes is such a complex condition, and relatives need to know the signs of DKA.”

Blanche says that the team, called Bristol for Bleddyn, hope to raise £10,000 for Diabetes UK to help other people with diabetes and their families.

“If the money raised can prevent another family losing someone young then it will be worth every penny and mile run,” she said.

To donate to the fundraisers running for Bleddyn, go to justgiving.com/teams/bristolforbleddyn.