EXPERTS from Europe gathered in the North-East yesterday to discuss advances in treating a mental illness.

The conference was organised by Rethink, formerly the National Schizophrenia Fellowship, at Newcastle Falcons Rugby Club, Newcastle.

Speakers included consultant psychiatrist Dr Adrianne Reveley, an expert in the relationship between genes and schizophrenia.

Subjects covered included the causes of schizophrenia, new treatments, breaking down the stigma surrounding mental illness, support for carers and treatments.