A NEW support group has been set up to raise awareness of the thousands suffering from bowel disease in the county.

Herefordshire’s Crohn’s and Colitis UK group is looking to bring together people of all ages and stages of treatment who have been affected by the disease.

Though relatively little is known about the condition, the problem affects a surprising number of people. A specialist clinic at Hereford County Hospital treats almost 4,000 gastroenterology patients each year.

The group is focusing on working with schools, employers, patients and their families to improve the understanding of Crohn’s disease and colitis – the two forms of inflamatory bowel syndrome.

It holds monthly meetings and plans activities to raise funds for research. The next meeting will be at Hereford’s Merton Hotel on October 23.

Further information can be found on the group’s Facebook page or by calling 08451 306824.