A NEW drive to provide more support and understanding for people in Bolton living with epilepsy is underway.

Many people with the condition claim they are suffering from a legacy of myth and misunderstanding in the community.

Blackrod couple Stephen and Rachel Prince are among thousands of Bolton sufferers living day-to-day with the neurological disorder that has no cure.

National charity, the British Epilepsy Association, is keen to revitalise its Bolton branch.

Figures released as part of National Epilepsy Week show a large number of people die from the condition.

Sue Blake, regional services manager for the association estimates that one in 130 people in Bolton has epilepsy. Mrs Blake said: "Everyday, more than 80 people in the UK are told that they have epilepsy. Many of these will eventually have their seizures controlled through modern treatments but about 20 per cent of sufferers have a form of epilepsy which is extremely resistant to drug treatment.

"Many people with epilepsy also face problems which can be anything from social rejection to over protection."

Rachel, aged 34 and Stephen, aged 41, met through their local epilepsy branch 10 years ago.

Romance blossomed and the couple married months after they met.

Stephen, who works at the Middlebrook Tavern, Horwich, said: "It would help if there was more understanding and help from other people.

"For other conditions, like diabetes, people seem to understand more. But with epilepsy, certain people just don't want to know.

"Most people don't even realise that if a person is having a seizure, that they should check that the person's airways are clear and to put them in the recovery position so that they don't hurt themselves."

Rachel believes she has been refused work interviews because she has filled in her application form with the word "epilepsy".

Rachel, a canteen worker at Manchester University, said: "I think there is a strong prejudice by employers."

Bolton's epilepsy specialist nurses, Janet Liddle and Eunice Hawkins, recently gave a talk at a public meeting held at the Jubilee Centre, Darley Street, Bolton, giving an update on drug therapies available and new treatments.

Mrs Liddle explained: "The more information people have, the more they will be able to help themselves."

The Bolton group is hoping to raise more awareness of the condition and is also looking for volunteers who may be able to spare some time to help others.

More details on help and support for people with epilepsy is available from Sue Blake on 01226 723292 or Epilepsy Action on 0808 800 5050.