IT was good to see ME (also known as chronic fatigue syndrome) featured in an article in the Press (March 3).

ME affects 240,000 people in Britain, including all ages and social groups. Two thirds of them are women and an estimated 25 per cent are so unwell that they are virtually housebound or confined to bed.

The illness has been calculated to cost the UK economy £3.5 billion a year.

It was excellent to see an article that recognised that people with invisible impairments such as pain, concentration problems and fatigue have difficulties in accessing goods and services which are not always apparent.

Unfortunately, the lives of people with ME are also affected by negative attitudes towards those with the condition, even though it has been formally recognised by the Government.

For further information about ME or the local support group please contact me on the York & District ME line, (01904) 655911, Monday to Thursday, 1pm-2.30pm.

Jenny Gilmore,

Chairperson,

York & District ME Support Group,

Glen Close,

Fulford, York.

Updated: 09:36 Wednesday, March 09, 2005