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The quiet room team at the opening

A "HAVEN of peace and tranquillity" in West Parley for sufferers of multiple sclerosis has been formally opened by the district's MP.

Christopher Chope, the member for Christchurch, cut the ribbon on a new quiet room in which the centre's users can recover from attacks of fatigue symptomatic of the disease.

Mr Chope said that a National Lottery grant of £80,000 had proved "vital" to the centre, which relies on the fundraising efforts of volunteers.

"They don't receive funding from the primary care trust for nursing costs, for example. They have to pay for provision of physiotherapy costs locally," said Mr Chope.

He made a plea for volunteers to help meet the transport needs of the centre's users.

"They have a fleet of vehicles to transport people to and from the centre, but still need volunteer drivers. It's a really worthwhile volunteering opportunity," said Mr Chope.

Regular visitors to the Osborne Centre said the new "quiet room" will make a "huge difference" to their lives.

Annette Close, 48, has lost the use of three limbs and says the new room will help her cope with the sudden tiredness that is a symptom of the condition.

"It's going to make a huge difference," she said.

Computer expert Scott Palmer, 36, said diagnosis with the disease six years ago had cost him his job and the companionship of colleagues.But since becoming a regular at the centre 18 months ago, the former web programmer has discovered a new world of friendship.

"It couldn't be more important. Before, I was stuck indoors watching the television. The centre has given me back my social life," he said.

4:39pm Thursday 17th July 2008

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