A SUPPORT group for sufferers of a little-understood illness has been thrown a lifeline.

The Cleveland ME Support Group has been awarded £1,500 from the ICI fund.

It is operated by volunteers who are sufferers or carers of those suffering from myalgic encephalomyetis, which affects people of all ages and causes extreme fatigue, memory loss and poor concentration.

Paul Franklin, vice-chairman of the group, said: "I had a responsible and rewarding career, and suddenly I found myself struck down."

The group has set up a helpline on (01642) 324994, which operates on weekdays from 9am to 5pm.

Meetings are held in people's homes, or at the Southlands Centre, Middlesbrough.

Members hope to secure further funding to support their plans.