A GROUP that is among the region's best celebrates its first birthday next month.

The Breathe Easy group, based in Great Sankey, brings together people with chest complaints from across the borough for monthly meetings and get-togethers.

And with July 4 being the first birthday of the group, organisers are now hoping to attract extra members. Earlier this year it was named the best of its kind in the north west.

Janice Matthews, from the group, knows more than most about chest complaints.

She was made famous when she fronted a national no smoking TV ad.

Now she says Breathe Easy can help people get out of the house and speak to people with similar complaints.

She said: "We have guest speakers, exercise and we talk about the benefits and treatments available from organisations. We want more people to come along and join in because it brings huge benefits."

A representative from Warrington Primary Care Trust is also available to give out health advice.

The group meets from 2.30pm at Great Sankey Library, at Lane Ends off Sankey Way, on the first Thursday of every month.

The next meeting takes place on Thursday, July 6, and everyone is welcome.