A GROUP which helps children who suffer from asthma is appealing to local businesses to save it from closure.

Blackburn Area Junior Asthma Club, which started in December, organises a host of events for sufferers showing them that they too can lead a normal active life.

But the club, which caters for children from Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and Burnley, may have to fold at the end of this year if funding is not found.

Susan Norman, Junior Club secretary, whose three children Lynne, 18, Steve, 15, and Elizabeth, seven, all suffer from asthma, said: "Since the club started there has been a marked improvement in the children's health and confidence.

"It would be a tragedy if we were forced to disband because the club brings so much joy to the children and more importantly makes them realise that they can live their lives like normal children and not be embarrassed to use their inhaler."

She added: "We are appealing to local businesses and individuals who may be able to sponsor some of the events to contact us."

The club, a part of the National Asthma Campaign, meets monthly to encourage children to take part in a host of sport and leisure activities.

All activities run in unison with the council are fully supervised and a trained asthma nurse is always present.

Events are open to asthmatic children, their siblings and parents at a cost of £2 per family. This Saturday, the club is staging an orienteering egg hunt from 10am in Witton Park, Blackburn.

Mrs Norman added: "Our only funding comes from the fee we charge for these events and small donations. The council has been very helpful but we desperately need further funding."

For more information contact Mrs Norman on 776895.

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