A SUPPORT group for patients and carers living with breathing problems is celebrating its first anniversary.

The Bishop Auckland Breath Easy group opened last March with local GP James Carlton and The Northern Echo's Mike Amos as guest speakers.

The aim of the organisation is to provide a network of friends, advisors, events and activities that support people affected by lung disease.

The group meets on the second Thursday of every month at Bishop Auckland Methodist Church, between 1pm and 3pm, and is run by volunteers with breathing difficulties. It is free and open to everyone.

Gillian Smith, project manager for the National Primary Care Development Team across Sedgefield, Durham Dales and Darlington Primary Care Trusts, said: "In the past 12 months, the group has contributed significantly in helping local people living with respiratory conditions by meeting and providing support and friendship.

"The group is very much a family affair with relatives also attending meetings and taking part in fundraising activities."

In the past year, the group has given £1,000 to the British Lung Foundation and £1,000 to the respiratory department at Bishop Auckland General Hospital.