VOLUNTEER drivers are needed to take teenagers with epilepsy to a weekly meeting.

Nurses Mel Foley and Di Tregonning run the support group for young epilepsy sufferers every Thursday from 5pm to 6pm at the Rosewood Centre, West Lane Hospital, Middlesbrough.

But many youngsters are unable to attend because they cannot get transport.

Ms Foley said: "The teenagers come from Middlesbrough, Redcar and east Cleveland. Di and I can't get round to everyone because we run the group in our own time.

"If parents can't bring the kids and they can't get a lift, then they just can't come. If anyone could help transport them we'd be ever so grateful and would pay something towards the cost."

The group is also looking for a new meeting place in Middlesbrough or Redcar. About 12 children aged between 11 and 17 attend.

"Children feel there's a stigma attached to having epilepsy and then there's the added stigma of meeting at a hospital. If there's any youth clubs or similar venues that we could use we'd be delighted," said Ms Foley.

Anyone who can help should telephone (01642) 813144.