A MAN has been recognised for his efforts to help support members of the public suffering with Ataxia.

Derek Wood, of Farnham, was one of the founding members of the Farnham & District Ataxia Support Group launched six years ago - receiving an award on behalf of the group at its annual conference.

Ataxia is a neurological condition which can affect co-ordination, balance and speaking - with estimates showing there are at least 10,000 adults with Ataxia in the UK.

Having been diagnosed 11 years ago, Derek sought to launch a group which provides emotional support, encouragement, advice and friendship.

The group has more than 30 registered members, meeting on a casual basis every two months, to socialise and discuss any issues they may be facing.

As well as launching the group, Derek volunteers at the National Hospital for Neurological Diseases in London - meeting with other Ataxia patients to provide them with help and advice after a visit to the hospital’s annual clinic.

"I am one of a team that goes out and chats to people.

"I see patients after they have seen the consultant, to chat to them about how their appointment went, and anything the charity can do to help them.

"My role is really to chat to people, show them there isn’t always a downside to it all. It really doesn’t mean you have to give up on everything."

The CEO of Ataxia UK, Sue Millman, commented on the success of Derek’s group and his efforts: "Every year at the annual conference, Ataxia UK recognises two people who have made outstanding contributions to the work of the charity.

"The Anne Ford Cup, which Derek won, is given in recognition of the commitment of a person with Ataxia.

"Derek has led the Farnham Support Group since 2013 and together they are very proactive. Derek and the group have brought together people across the local area where genuine and strong friendships have been formed.

"Together they work on raising awareness of Ataxia, and Derek is known for encouraging and supporting members to do their own awareness raising and fundraising."

To find out more about Farnham & District’s group, call Derek on 07776 188877

Ataxia UK is in the midst of its Big Give, running from December 3 to December 10. Any donations made to Ataxia UK at this time will be doubled at no extra cost to the donor.

To donate, visit www.ataxia.org.uk