TWO per cent of people still believe that epilepsy is caused by evil spirits, according to a local support group.

The shock viewpoint was revealed by Rochdale Oldham and Bury Epilepsy Society (ROBES) during National Epilepsy Week, which finishes on Saturday.

The society has been using the results of a survey carried out by the National Society for Epilepsy to highlight the concerns of people living with the brain condition.

Leslie O'Shea, chairman of ROBES which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, said: "More than 30,000 adults and about 75,000 children in the UK have epilepsy. It is much more common than people think, but there is still a lot of mis-information both among people with the condition and the public at large.

"Even in this day and age, a survey by the National Society for Epilepsy found that two per cent of people still think epilepsy, a brain disorder which causes people to have seizures, is caused by evil spirits."

He added: "On a local level, we have a support group. We meet every third Monday in Rochdale. Our meetings are very friendly and informal and we discuss any problems, large or small, which any of the members may have.

"We give out information leaflets and lend books and videos out."

ROBES is also committed to raising money for various projects connected with the National Epilepsy Society. Last year a donation was made towards the training of a "seizure" dog.

For more information on the support group ring 0161 761 7140 or 01706345262 or log on to www.rochdaleonline.com and click the link for information/charities or www.epiweb.org