A GROUP helping people who suffer respiratory diseases like COPD or asthma is now a year old – and on the lookout for more people to get involved.

The Okehampton Pulmonary Maintenance Group provides a weekly exercise programme, designed and instructed by a Level 4 qualified instructor. Ideally, participants would have been assessed and had referrals from a doctor.

The group is purely exercise based, not at all medical. Participants are introduced to a daily and weekly routine of exercise that will promote a better quality of life and help participants remain independent. Organisers try to give each participant their own exercise programme to allow for other medical considerations or restrictions.

Having run for a year, organisers are now looking to raise awareness of the group following a drop in NHS support.

Lynne Rogers who runs the group said: 'With less support from the NHS as we had in the beginning due to staff changes, we are struggling to get the support from our busy doctors.

'I am hoping to encourage the public who may be struggling with these respiratory challenges to possibly try to become involved and ignite the interest of the doctors in the area to notice that there is a local support group for this category of disease.

'If you've been diagnosed with a lung condition, chances are you are terrified of being breathless and are very susceptible to chest infections and viruses.

'Our group has had success in fending off the worst of these threats by staying healthy and active this year. Defence is the best offence, and that is what we practise. It also helps to know that support is readily available among our participants and group leaders.'

The group takes place at the Pavilion in the Park on Wednesdays from 11.45am to 12.45pm.

For more information call Lynne Rogers on 07827 787867.