A SUPPORT group which helps people in Gloucestershire who suffer from a debilitating illness is on the lookout for new members.

Leaders say the hypothyroid group, which is based in Cheltenham, has gone from strength to strength since it was set up by Geraldine Davis in February.

The grandmother-of-two decided to launch the venture so those suffering from hypothyroidism, which means a lack of thyroid hormone in the body, could share their experiences.

The 67-year-old, from Swindon Road, says 17 people have made contact in the last two months.

She said: "I'm pleased with the response. But I am sure there are hundreds more suffering out there who might like to get in touch."

The group has begun meeting in Mrs Davis' home and enjoyed the chance to talk about their symptoms with others who appreciate how they are feeling.

Mrs Davis said: "We feel talking about it bores people who haven't got it as they don't understand.

"We all understand what we're going through. We don't all have the same symptoms but a lot of them are the same."

Members discuss books which have come out on the subject as well as medical findings.

Some of Mrs Davis' symptoms have included aches and pains, a lack of energy and feeling extremely cold.

For more than 20 years, she had a growing list of health problems , before being diagnosed with hypothyroidism last year.

The mother-of-four says she used to think she had a 24-hour virus and at one point was so weak she could hardly walk up stairs.

She set the support group up after not being able to find a similar venture in the county.

"I would like more people to know about it. It's not just about meeting up if people want to get in touch by e-mail they can."

People who would like to find out more can email Mrs Davis at mikeandgerdavis@talktalk.net.