A SUPPORT group which helps people affected by cancer including their relatives and carers is celebrating its first anniversary.

Great Aycliffe Cancer Support Groups was set up by leukaemia survivor Allison White last February and now has more than 20 members.

It meets every month in Newton Aycliffe but is open to people from surrounding towns and villages, including Bishop Auckland, Spennymoor, Shildon and Darlington.

As well as arranging guest speakers and access to relevant information, the group also enjoy pamper sessions, lunch outings and day trips.

Miss White said: “When a friend of relative is diagnosed with cancer it can be hard to know what to say, which can leave the patient feeling lonely. That’s why groups like these are so important.”

The next meeting takes place at Neville Community Centre, Newton Aycliffe, on Thursday, March 5, from 6pm to 7.30pm, when a representative from Healthwatch will attend.

For more information contact Miss White on 07762258696