IT IS the end of an era for a group which has supported people living with osteoporosis for more than 20 years.

Volunteers at the Bolton branch of the National Osteoporosis Society made the difficult decision to discontinue their work due to a drop in membership — but say they have nothing but happy memories of educating adults and children about the condition.

Branch secretary Edna Liptrot was inspired to join group when she was diagnosed with osteoporosis at the age of 67.

Osteoporosis is a condition that affects the bones, causing them to become weak and fragile and more likely to break.

Ms Liptrot wanted other osteoporosis patients to have access to information and to educate youngsters about the importance of looking after their bones.

The 78-year-ol of Hunger Hill, said: “I have lived with osteopenia — a form of osteoporosis — for many years.

“My mother had it too and died after breaking her hip. I actually broke my fibula in my leg when I was 55 but I didn’t realise what it was.

“However it wasn’t until I fell and broke my wrist that I was diagnosed, and that’s when I got involved with the group.”

Janet Bisset, is also an osteoporosis sufferer and has helped with the group.

Mrs Bisset, aged 87, said: “I was astonished when I found out I had it but the signs were there. I just slipped on the ice and broke my ankle.

“I have really enjoyed going to the group — mainly for the social side. We have had some lovely times.”

Over the years, the branch has held information days and received a grant to hand out Healthy Bones packs to primary schools in Bolton.

Ms Liptrot added: “I have really enjoyed my years as group secretary and and am very grateful for the companionship and friendship of all the other members.

“I hope in future there will be a new osteoporosis group in Bolton because older people are being diagnosed all the time with this condition.”

For more information about osteoporosis go to: nos.org.uk or call 0845 1303076.