STUTTERERS can discover how to find their voice at an open day held by the McGuire Programme.

It offers regular four-day courses with intensive support, the next is taking place in Newcastle from Wednesday, July 23, to Sunday, July 27.

People who have learned how to control their stammers using breathing techniques and now coach others will be explaining how it has helped them at an open day on Sunday, July 6, at 2pm until 4pm, in the function room at The Dolphin Centre, Darlington.

The course, which counts singer Gareth Gates among its members, operates across the world.

Matthew Richardson, 41, from Stockton who has been involved with the programme for 18 years, has instructed courses in Australia and South Africa as well as the UK.

He said: “For me, going on a McGuire Course has been a life-changing experience. I grew up terrified of speaking, even having friends order food for me.

“Now I can live a full life without being frightened about having to speak. I love being able to read to my children, calling people on the phone and ordering drinks at the bar.”

For more information about the McGuire Programme open day in Darlington or the forthcoming Newcastle course email iain.mutch@mcguireprogramme.com