PEOPLE suffering from the debilitating disease Multiple Sclerosis can benefit from an aromatherapy service launched by the Butterwick Hospice at Bishop Auckland.

The service is free to people living in Wear Valley and Teesdale and offers sufferers relaxing massage sessions using essential oils to enhance the experience.

Carers can also learn some simple massage techniques at the same time.

The hospice has received grant support from Help the Hospices and the St James Place Foundation.

The service is supported by Durham Dales Action for Carers and Stanhope and Darlington MS Societies.

Aromatherapist Andrea Lambell is hosting three initial drop-in sessions in Stanhope, Bishop Auckland and Barnard Castle where she will answer questions and tell people what to expect.

The sessions will be held at the Weardale MS Society office, Martin Street, Stanhope, on Thursday, May 19, from 7.30pm until 9.30pm; the Butterwick Hospice in Woodhouse Lane, Bishop Auckland, on Tuesday, June 7, from 10am until 12.30pm; and the Richardson Hospital, Victoria Road, Barnard Castle, on Tuesday, June 14, from 10am until 12.30pm.