PEOPLE in the Keighley area affected by Parkinson's are being invited to attend an annual lecture.

Caroline Rassell, chief executive of Parkinson's UK, is giving the address at the November 16 event.

The Val Rowley Lecture takes place at Skipton Town Hall. Doors open at 1.40pm, and the talk starts at 2pm. Attendance is free, and people can simply turn up.

Ms Rassell will give an update on the work of Parkinson's UK and latest developments related to the condition, and her talk will be followed by a question-and-answer session.

A spokesperson says: "This is an opportunity for people living with Parkinson’s and their loved ones to learn more about the charity's research, chat with others affected by the condition and discover more about local support and activities.

"Free refreshments – tea, coffee and biscuits – will be available."

Val Rowley was instrumental in setting up what is now Skipton and District Parkinson’s Support Group in 1993.

Following her death in 2021, the support group created the annual lecture in her memory.

Ms Rassell says: "Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s can be a shock, and adapting to life with the condition can be hard for the person affected and their loved ones too. But we know that getting the right information and advice and meeting others with shared experiences can make all the difference.

"That’s why we’re proud to bring together people across the area who are living with Parkinson’s and welcome them to this wonderful lecture held in Val’s honour."

Sue Jackson, Skipton and District Parkinson’s Support Group co-ordinator, says: "We are delighted that Caroline is taking time out of her busy schedule to visit our support group in semi-rural North Yorkshire.

"This will be our second annual lecture given to remember former volunteer Val, who was instrumental in founding the group and a member into her 90s."

Around 153,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with Parkinson’s, including about 12,000 in the Yorkshire and Humber region.

There are more than 360 support groups across the UK.

The groups are run by volunteers, who are trained and supported by Parkinson's UK staff.

Keighley Parkinson's Support Group meets at the Healthy Living Centre, in Scott Street, behind the library, on Mondays, at 1.30pm. New members are welcome. For further information, visit localsupport.parkinsons.org.uk/provider/keighley-support-group

For more details about Parkinson's UK and the range of information and support the charity provides, go to parkinsons.org.uk