A group set up to help people who have had strokes is setting up a third branch - after an evaluation day proved to be a big success.

Enough people came forward at an event held by the Stroke Survivors Speech and Language group at Ashfields Primary Care Centre for organisers to announce they are setting up a new group in the town.

Founder, Liz Bedson, set up the first group in Crewe in 2018 after her own father had a stroke. A second group was set up in Alsager in May last year as Alsager Nub News told here .

Now a third branch is to be set up in Sandbach, co-ordinated to begin with by Arthur Harding, who himself has had two strokes and the organisation is appealing for volunteers to come forward to help run the Sandbach group.

"We're trying to break down the social isolation which comes with strokes," said Arthur. "By meeting together people can get help and make new friends which is so important.

"We're absolutely delighted with the response at Ashfields. It just shows the need for a group in the town. We currently have groups n Crewe and Alsager but realise that transport from Sandbach can be difficult hence.

"What we're looking for now are volunteers who can spare around two hours a week to make tea and coffee and chat to people."

The Sandbach group will be run along the same lines as the Alsager and Crewe one.

Founder, Liz Bedson, personally understood the experience and challenges of having a loved one survive a stroke after her father suffered a stroke. 

"The groups allow every participant to enjoy and challenge themselves whilst being amongst people who have lived through stroke," said a spokesperson.

"The value of the groups and their support is immeasurable and for their members it gives them a target and a purpose.

After a stroke, many survivors lose their confidence, self-esteem and identity so become socially isolated.

"We provide a safe and relaxing environment, with peer support and practical tools to develop new ways of communicating through engaging activities," Liz added.

Information about activities run by the two groups, which are set to be joined by the Sandbach one, can be found on their website here