A cheque for £250 was recently presented to the HOPE Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre based at Honeyborough Business Park, Neyland, by The Master of the Gild of Freemen of Pembroke, Mr. Roy Folland. It was received by Mr. Ken Brombley, chairman of HOPE, while also in attendance were other Gild members and HOPE associates.

HOPE was initially formed in 1984 when a group of local people, some with MS, began raising funds to establish an Oxygen Treatment (O2T) Centre close to home. After hectic fundraising over two years, the Centre at Honeyborough was finally established on January 6, 1986.

The treatment consists of breathing pure medical oxygen whilst in a pressurised environment of up to two atmospheres for an hour each time, scheduled for once or twice a week. Benefits can include: improved mobility, improved speech, better control of continence, improved eyesight and a general feeling of well-being.

In the very well equipped unit where those suffering from Multiple Sclerosis and Motor Neuron Disease receive oxygen treatment, there is also neurological physiotherapy and other treatment supervised by qualified staff.

A quote from one member says: "Following MS attacks, oxygen treatment has enabled me to regain energy levels and improve my co-ordination and confidence. Also of tremendous benefit is the fun that we all enjoy at HOPE. There is certainly life after diagnosis."

In the HOPE Centre, people undergoing treatment, their carers, friends and family can gather in a comfortable, friendly environment just to relax and enjoy each other's company.

The Centre is open to all those with MS or related diseases in Pembrokeshire and can be contacted on 01646 600384.