A VITAL support organisation giving help and advice to those suffering what can be the life-changing effects of a stroke has been launched in the Okehampton area.

The group?s first task has been to organise a series of talks for people who have suffered strokes or care for or know someone who has suffered a stroke.

Sue Moreton, Mid Devon Stroke co-ordinator, said the group was being formed because there was no support for people who had suffered strokes in Okehampton, and she hoped the group would carry on meeting after the series of talks was completed.

Mrs Moreton said: ?A stroke is a calamitous event, often people can?t drive and can?t do their job, so it can be good to talk to people who have been through it.?

Mrs Moreton said stroke victims and their carers were welcome to join the group for all or as many of the sessions as they wished to attend.

And she asked people that might know a friend or family member who has had a stroke and who might be interested, to give them the details of the group.

Two talks have already been held, one with a specialist stroke physician from Wonford House Hospital in Exeter and the other with a physiotherapist.

Each of the talks will be for about one hour and there will be time for questions and a chance to have a chat with the presenters. There will also be time for the group to talk and share experiences.

There are four more talks from experienced health professionals, each taking place at the Fairplace Church in Fairplace Terrace, Okehampton, between 2-4.30pm.

The next meeting will be tomorrow (Friday), with a talk given by registered nurse, Jane Diaz.

On Friday June 27, occupational therapist Jen Gash will be delivering the next talk.

On Thursday July 3, Judy Waterer, a speech and language therapist will attend.

The final session will be on Tuesday, July 15, with talks from Colin Crowther and Sue Moreton.

If you would like further information about the group, please contact Sue Moreton, Mid Devon Stroke co-ordinator, telephone number 01392 449754.