HAMPSHIRE students with Type 1 diabetes are being asked to create films about their experiences to raise awareness of the condition.

The Diabetes in School short film competition aims to improve care in the classroom and help youngsters manage their treatment.

Hampshire pupils aged 11 to 17 are invited to submit a video of no more than three minutes exploring how they deal with the condition at school.

Their entries will be judged by an expert panel including film actress Elinor Crawley, who starred in the British cult film Submarine and has Type 1 diabetes.

Ms Crawley said: "The competition is a fun and engaging way for young people with Type 1 diabetes and their peers to tell their stories about diabetes and share a serious health message across schools."

Diabetes UK, which organised the contest, stresses you don't need Type 1 diabetes to take part.

Jill Steaton, Diabetes UK's South East Regional Manager, said: “We know that many schools in Hampshire are doing a fantastic job of supporting children and young people with Type 1 diabetes, and since the introduction of a new law in England to improve support in school for students with medical conditions, there has been huge improvements to the way diabetes support is delivered in schools."

The competition runs until November 16. Shortlisted candidates, as well as the winner of the 'fan favourite' public vote, will see their entries screened at the BAFTA 195 Piccadilly private members' club in central London.For more information, visit diabetes.org.uk/short-film-competition.