I AM concerned about possible withdrawal of drugs available for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease on the NHS.

These drugs are not a cure but are acknowledged to be effective in alleviating some of the symptoms for some people.

Yet the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) has said in draft guidance that they should not be available on the NHS due to their cost -- just £2.50 per person per day.

I am astonished that NICE appears to have rejected overwhelming evidence from people with dementia, their unpaid carers and health professionals that these drug treatments are both cost effective and clinically effective.

People with Alzheimer's disease deserve a much better deal.

I am writing to local MPs to ask for their help in taking this forward, and I would urge all concerned readers to do the same.

GERALDINE MOORE, Chief Officer of Age Concern Lancashire.