A specialist community physiotherapy service has been launched for people suffering from multiple sclerosis.

The service has been jointly funded by the Hambleton and Richmondshire Primary Care Trust and the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Anna Newell has taken up the post as specialist community physiotherapist working two days a week with the trust, which is hoping to involve people with MS in developing the service.

Together with the society, the trust is planning to hold two meetings, and is inviting people with MS to attend and share their ideas.

Ms Newell said: "The challenge is the size of the geographical area and the time available, bearing in mind training and quality needs.

"This is a very positive step forward for the region and should help with the development of other much-needed MS services."

The meetings are being held on Tuesday, June 8, at 10.30am, at the recreation hall of the Friarage Hospital, Northallerton, and on Thursday, June 10, at 1.30pm at Thornborough Hall, Leyburn.

To find out more, either attend one of the meetings or contact the physiotherapy department at the Friarage Hospital on (01609) 763046.