PARENTS' knowledge of the main symptoms of Type 1 diabetes has risen significantly over the past year, according to a new survey.

Diabetes UK said awareness of the four symptoms was now 14%, compared to 9% this time last year.

Almost 29,000 people in Scotland are known to have Type 1 diabetes but it is estimated that in about a quarter of cases, youngsters are not diagnosed quickly and become ill - with the delay proving fatal in some cases.

Barbara Young, chief executive of Diabetes UK, said: "By making parents aware of the symptoms of Type 1 diabetes, we can help make sure children have the best possible chance of being diagnosed quickly."