CHILDREN who suffer with asthma have the chance to see if singing can help improve their breathing.

A new scheme, Breath Stars, has been designed by nurse Heather Henry, who herself has asthma.

She was inspired by the leader of an adult ‘singing for breathing’ group who doubled her lung strength after singing for a year, delaying the need for a transplant.

Ms Henry said: “Singing is simple, children love it and our singing teacher, Debbie Prince, makes it a lot of fun too. When I looked into the evidence I could tell that in adults with lung problems it strengthens the breathing muscles, reduces anxiety and builds confidence.

“All these things could reduce asthma symptoms and mean fewer visits to the doctor or time off school.”

She is looking for children aged between seven and 12 on a brown (preventer) inhaler, living in Little Hulton and north Walkden.

The group is free and meets at Little Hulton Library every Wednesday during term time between 4pm and 5pm.