PEOPLE with long-term health problems are being invited to take part in a course designed to improve their quality of life.

Hambleton and Richmondshire Primary Care Trust is holding its first Living Well course, aimed at helping people take control of their condition.

The course is part of the Department of Health's Expert Patient Programme. It consists of a free course of group sessions to help people manage how to live with illness.

Co-ordinator Anne Botterill said: "It's not about learning how to manage diabetes, asthma or depression from a medical point of view but about learning skills to help get the most out of life."

A limited number of places are available on the first course, which will take place in Northallerton Community Centre, on Thursdays from 10am to 12.30pm, from September 11.

For details, or to book a place, call (01845) 573800.