Mersea Island residents living with Parkinson's have been invited to a new informal cafe support group.

The programme, organised by Parkinson's UK, is targeted at individuals with diagnoses and their families, aiming to offer necessary support for adapting to life with Parkinson’s.

The cafe group will facilitate interaction, laughter, and friendship for those affected by the condition, creating a sense of community.

The group also aims to empower those with Parkinson's, providing an opportunity to get together over a cup of tea to discuss their experiences. Parkinson's affects around 153,000 people in the UK, including over 4,000 residents of Essex.

As the nation's leading charity for the disease, Parkinson's UK seeks to improve life for everyone affected through research, information and supportive campaigns, with its ultimate goal being a cure.

Anne Marfleet has Parkinson's, and is a volunteer for the cafe session, said: "I have been living with Parkinson's for more than ten years, yet it was only when I chatted with others in a group, that I realised how much support we were able to give each other.

"I have long hoped for a local group to be set up, to meet at a local venue, and with the support of Parkinson's UK and Mersea Barns we have that opportunity. Everyone is welcome whatever your connection to Parkinson's."

The cafe sessions are held every third Wednesday of each month from 2pm to 4pm at Mersea Barns, East Mersea, Colchester, CO5 8TQ.

Those seeking more information on this initiative can reach out to Anne Marfleet at 07968 351388 or Kate Watson at kwatson@parkinsons.org.uk.