A SPECIALIST spinal cord injury centre, which treats patients from North Yorkshire, was holding a special awareness-raising event this week.

The regional spinal cord injuries centre at James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough, currently treats patients from Malton, Whitby, Ripon and Thirsk.

Current and former patients were invited to the event today, along with members of the public.

The event not only marks Spinal Cord Injuries Awareness Day, but it is almost a year since the £6 million centre, which provides a service for the northern region stretching from the Scottish border, Cumbria, the North-East, Teesside and North Yorkshire, first opened its doors.

Clinical matron Glynis Peat said: "Our aim is to help and support patients to reach their full rehabilitation potential after suffering such a life-changing injury. We are delighted to welcome some of our former patients back to the centre. "It's been nearly a year since we opened the doors and it really is a fantastic centre - the feedback from patients, visitors and staff has been tremendous."

Every year, between 30 and 50 people in the region receive a spinal cord injury, many as a result of car accidents, sports injuries or falls at home.

Updated: 09:28 Friday, May 16, 2003