A PETITION calling for a dedicated clinic for ME sufferers in south Wales has been presented to the Welsh Assembly by an ME support group.

The ME Support in Glamorgan (MESIG) group, which has members throughout Penarth and the Vale, are calling for a much needed specialist clinic and health team in the area to cater for sufferers in South Wales.

A previous petition was handed in with more than 7000 signatures and this time more than a thousand people have given their names to the cause.

A spokeswoman for the group said: “We know that there is no cure at present, but the right treatment and medical advice, especially at the early stage of the illness, could prevent the severity of this illness, and in some cases help the patient recover.

“There are over 250,000 people with ME in this country. Many are house-bound or even bed-ridden.

“It affects men, women and children. In fact 54,000 children have been diagnosed with this illness in the UK.

“Many thousands of them are in Wales and desperate for treatment.

“A common problem with people diagnosed with the illness, is that few people are aware of the reality and severity of the illness, and negative response can often result in the rapid progression of symptoms. “

MESIG hold meetings on the first Monday of each month at Llanishen Community Shop, Llangranog Road, Llanishen, Cardiff 11am to 12.30pm.

For information contact 02920 762347, mesigwales@gmail.com or visit www.mesupportinglamorgan.co.uk