THE newly-formed Somerset Colorectal Cancer Support Group is meeting at the West Mendip Hospital, Glastonbury, at 7pm on Thursday, September 13.

The charity provides support to people who have been through bowel cancer - patients, families and carers.

It is run by patients for patients and is supported by the colorectal surgeons and nurses at Taunton's Musgrove Park Hospital.

The group holds meetings and social events, as well as carrying out fund-raising activities and lobbying for improved services and facilities for bowel cancer patients.

Members recently launched a fund-raising drive for a diathermy machine at Musgrove.

Taunton-based colorectal specialist surgeon Chris Vickery said: "This type of equipment can cut the time of a major abdominal operation from four and a half to just two and a half hours.

"There is increasing evidence that cancer operations using diathermy lead to quicker recovery. Shorter operations and faster recovery are good for the patient".

Macmillan dietician Jude Burgess will talk about the best diet for patients with bowel cancer at Thursday's meeting.

The group has also organised monthly drop in and have a cup of coffee with us' sessions in Taunton and Glastonbury from next month.

More information about the group and its activities can be obtained from chairman Annie Lanigan on 01460-259836.