25 years of helping

OLDHAM’S Parkinson’s UK branch is celebrating 25 years of helping people with the condition.

The branch began operating on April 16, 1989 following a public meeting organised by the Parkinson’s Disease Society.

Twenty five years later, the branch has been responsible for raising thousands of pounds for research, helped to develop a drop-in clinic at the Royal Oldham Hospital, and led the way for others by co-financing the first specialist nurse and a welfare worker to help Oldham hospital patients.

Current chair Les Shelmerdine said: “The branch is continually looking to develop ideas to further help our members, with recent additions including exercise classes run by a specialist trainer and a newsletter.”

The Oldham branch meets on the last Wednesday of most months at the Link Centre, Union Street, from 2pm-4.15pm. Info: www.parkinsons.org.uk or Les Shelmerdine on 07913 559432